pdninquiry

Turkey season is here once again and everyone is excited to gather family together for the big feast. What is it about the big feast that makes it so enjoyable? Maybe the kinds of food consumed or maybe it’s the fact that it’s one time out of the year where the whole family sits together and just eat? After all that food, we tend to feel lethargic and fatigue, and the myth states that turkey causes this feeling. Is it true? Does turkey really make one tire and sleepy?

Let’s not blame it all on the turkey, because it’s not the only one factor that causes lethargy. Turkey does excrete L-tryptophan that is sent to the brain to produce melatonin and serotonin which  has the effect of calming a person down. However, for this effect to occur, L-tryptophan must be consumed by itself on an empty stomach. Since a turkey has so many other amino acids within its composition, it is unlikely the effect of L-tryptophan.

This fatigue feeling is actually the effect of the amount of carbohydrates being consumed. The amount of carbohydrates and fats consumed requires more effort for digestion; therefore, the blood flow is more concentrated near the stomach leaving the rest of the body tire.

Also, the relaxing atmosphere after a thanksgiving dinner can contribute to this factor. It’s nice to feel tire and accomplished after the big meal so that we can relax after a stressful year. However, if you prefer to stay alert and active after this feast, it’s recommended that you should only eat what you can consume.

• Eat in moderation and avoid junk food on the day of thanksgiving.
• Try not to starve yourself the whole day before the big feast.
• Once you’re full, get up and take a little walk to help with the digestion.
• Avoid fights with your family!