You've had that feeling. It hits you around 2:00 p.m. Every day. Your eyelids are getting heavy, and your energy is dwindling. You fight it for as long as you can, but eventually, you give in and take a nap. What causes this to happen? Is it simply because you ate a large lunch?
You've probably noticed that after eating, you tend to feel extremely sleepy. This is not unique to you; many people have similar experiences. It turns out that there's some science behind post-meal fatigue. Continue reading to find out more.

1. Your blood sugar levels are the most common cause. When you consume carbohydrates, your body converts them into glucose (sugar). Glucose then enters your bloodstream, raising your blood sugar levels. Your pancreas releases the hormone insulin in response to this rise in blood sugar. Insulin aids in the removal of glucose from the bloodstream and its transport into cells for energy or storage. Your blood sugar levels fall as insulin removes glucose from the bloodstream. Fatigue can result from a drop in blood sugar.

2. Sleep deprivation: It's no secret that most Nigerians do not get enough sleep. According to a NOIPolls poll conducted in 2019, 72% of Nigerians sleep for 6 hours or less every night. This is far less than the 7-9 hours of sleep that adults require to function optimally. A lack of sleep can cause daytime fatigue, which is exacerbated after a meal because your body is attempting to digest food while also attempting to sleep.
3. Dehydration: It is estimated that 75% of Nigerians are chronically dehydrated, and one of the leading causes of fatigue is dehydration. When you're dehydrated, your body has to work harder to perform basic functions like maintaining your heart rate and body temperature. This can result in tiredness and lethargy. And, because you lose water while digesting food, it's not surprising that you'd feel even more tired after eating.

4. Nutritional deficiencies: Certain nutrients are required for energy production, and if you don't get enough of them in your diet, you'll feel tired. Iron, magnesium, and B vitamins like B12 and folate are common culprits. So, if you're constantly tired after eating, it's worth talking to your doctor or a registered dietitian to see if you're deficient in any of these nutrients.

5. Some foods cause sleepiness as a side effect.
Because of their chemical composition, certain foods can make you sleepy. Foods high in tryptophan, for example, are known to induce drowsiness. Tryptophan is an amino acid that your body uses to make serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep patterns. So, the next time you feel sleepy after eating, consider what you ate and whether tryptophan-rich foods like turkey or dairy products were to blame.

Other potential causes of fatigue after eating include:
* Iron deficiency anemia: Fatigue is a common symptom of iron deficiency anemia. When your body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen in the blood, you develop this condition. If you suspect you are anemic, consult your doctor about getting a blood test.
* Food sensitivities: Some people struggle to digest certain foods or food groups (such as dairy or gluten). This can cause inflammation and digestive problems, both of which can contribute to fatigue. Keeping a food diary can assist you in identifying foods that cause fatigue or other symptoms.
* Medications: As a side effect, some prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause fatigue. If you suspect that your medication is causing fatigue, consult your doctor about possible alternatives.

If you're feeling tired after meals, it could be that it’s not just in your head. There are a variety of reasons why people may feel tired after eating, and we've listed some of the most common here. Take action to address the issue now that you've identified what's causing your fatigue. Sign up for free on [url=ww.rohealth.ng]roHealth [/url]today to get health insurance that will help cover some of the costs of seeking medical attention if you suffer from post-meal exhaustion. We hope you found this article useful; please share it with your friends and family who may be affected by this issue!
Enjoy your meal!