feeling sleepy after lunch

Many people feel tired and sleepy after a meal, especially after lunch. If you often ask yourself, “Why do I feel sleepy after eating?”, you are not alone. Doctors call it postprandial somnolence, and in most cases it is normal. In this article, you will learn what causes it and how to stay alert. Your Body Uses Energy to Digest Food After you eat, your body sends more blood to your stomach and intestines to break down food and absorb nutrients. Digestion also takes energy. You may feel less energetic in other parts of the body, including your brain. The more you eat, the harder your digestive system works. Blood Sugar and Insulin Changes When you eat foods high in carbohydrates, your blood sugar rises. Your body releases insulin to move sugar into your cells. Some foods also help your brain make more serotonin and melatonin, which are chemicals that make you feel calm and sleepy. Your Body Clock Most people feel a natural dip in alertness in the early afternoon, whether they eat or not. A big lunch can make that dip feel stronger. Other Common Causes When It Could Be a Health Problem Feeling sleepy after meals can sometimes point to a medical condition. These include: How to Stay Alert After Eating When to See a Doctor See a doctor if you feel extremely sleepy after most meals, if you also feel very thirsty or urinate often, if you snore loudly or stop breathing at night, or if the tiredness affects your daily life. Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It is not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your own health.