『New Posts』★★★★★

Why We Feel Sleepy After Eating

Why We Feel Sleepy After Eating

You eat a normal meal. Nothing unusual.

Yet minutes later, your eyelids feel heavy. Your focus fades. You want to rest.

This common experience has little to do with laziness. It’s a natural physiological response.

Illustration showing blood flow shifting from the brain to the digestive system after a meal, causing drowsiness

1. Digestion Redirects Blood Flow

After eating, your body prioritizes digestion.

More blood is sent to the stomach and intestines. Slightly less reaches the brain.

This shift can reduce alertness and create drowsiness.

2. Hormones Change After a Meal

Eating triggers insulin release. Insulin helps move nutrients into cells.

At the same time, it increases the availability of serotonin and melatonin — chemicals associated with relaxation and sleep.

3. Large or Heavy Meals Increase the Effect

Meals high in carbohydrates or calories demand more digestive effort.

The more work digestion requires, the stronger the post-meal sleepiness.

4. Circadian Rhythm Plays a Role

Humans naturally experience a dip in alertness in the early afternoon.

Eating during this window amplifies the sleepy feeling.

5. How to Reduce Post-Meal Drowsiness

• Eat moderate portions • Balance carbohydrates with protein and fiber • Stay hydrated • Take light movement after meals

Feeling sleepy after eating is normal. Understanding it helps you manage your energy better.


Copyright © octopus0 What +α All Rights Reserved.

コメント

閲覧数が多い記事 |Articles with many views

Why Small Tasks Feel Harder Than Big Ones

Why We Keep Checking Our Phones Without Any Notification

Why We Feel Tired After Doing Nothing

Why Time Feels Faster as We Get Older