The Myth of Tryptophan and Sleepiness

The notion that tryptophan in turkey causes sleepiness after Thanksgiving dinner is largely a myth. An expert highlighted that while tryptophan is indeed present in turkey, it is found in many other foods, including dairy and eggs, often in higher quantities. It would take consuming an unreasonable amount of turkey to experience significant effects from tryptophan alone, as many other factors contribute to post-meal drowsiness. The larger picture includes carbohydrate intake and the natural physiological response our bodies have after a large meal, which involves diverting blood flow to aid digestion.