The ITIS: The feeling of sleepiness after a meal

Feeling drowsy after a really good meal on a hot Tuesday afternoon? Don't worry Buhari didn't cause this one, he's innocent. This is something that happens quite often actually, and we are going to find out why.

Back in school there were some meals which were sure to make you sleep after eating them, we called these 'Knockout Chow'

• Yam and Egg

• Ewa Agoyin and Bread (3x Platinum Worldwide for knockouts), if you want to take it up a notch, add: 2eggs, 1pack of Ice Tea and 1Bottle water, you're sure to wake up in a strange land confused and dazed.

• Indomie (for some strange reason)

• Any kind of swallow and soup (Eko doesn’t count pls)

But what really happens when we eat these that makes us feel sleepy?

INTRODUCTION

Postprandial Somnolence also known as food coma, is the term used to describe the feeling of being exhausted, sleepy, or low on energy that can occur right after eating a meal. It's not something to worry however, although a lot of research has gone into finding out what causes this and why it happens.

CAUSE

The truth is no-one is absolutely sure they know why this happens, there's been a lot of research on this and as a result, researchers have been able to identify a number of factors that could be the trigger for this. Some researchers believe the food coma happens when the body produces more serotonin than usual when you eat, also, shifts in the body's circadian rhythm could play a part. Circadian rhythm is the term used to describe the natural and internal process that controls the cycle of sleep and wakefulness, and it typically repeats itself every 24 hours.

Other causes of the food coma may include but is not limited to: hormones, blood flow, brain chemicals and inflammation.

FOOD

Although a greater deal of research is needed and is necessary to really understand this phenomenon. According to the Sleep Foundation, some types of food are more likely to cause this more often than others. These include:

• Foods with high fats which are rich and heavy: Foods that are high in fat can be hard to digest, which can make it more likely for one to feel tired after a meal.

• Meals with high carbohydrate content may cause sleepiness: Besides fat, some studies have found that consuming meals that are high in carbohydrates can also contribute to feeling more fatigued after eating.

• Also foods rich in Tryptophan which include: Lean poultry like chicken or turkey, fish, eggs, milk, beans, tofu, soy products, nuts and seeds.

• Quantity of food consumed: How much food you tend to eat also plays a role affecting someone with food coma. A person who eats lighter meals is less likely to be affected by this in comparison to a person who eats heavy meals.

FIX

Although there is no assured treatment for this (because it isn't an illness), there are some things you can do to prevent or reduce its effect and help you stay alert after a meal (even if it's heavy).

• Consume meals more frequently, but in smaller amounts: Instead of consuming large meals, it's better to have smaller meals and snacks every few hours to maintain energy levels.

• Go for a walk.

• Keep yourself hydrated: Water intake plays a role in energy and fatigue. Whether it's being dehydrated or over-hydrated, it can lead to feeling tired and fatigued. Maintaining proper hydration levels can help the body maintain a consistent level of alertness and energy, including after eating.

• Try the bright-light therapy: Some studies have shown that exposure to bright light after meals can reduce the effects of drowsiness.

SUMMARY

The feeling of sleepiness after a meal is pretty normal and should be of no cause for alarm, however if this is getting in the way of work or productivity, and has become uncontrollable, it is advisable to get help from a doctor.

Till next time guys. Bye.