2006-11-25 07:43:11 · 3 answers · asked by CJH683 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
While many will tell you that the amino acid "tryptophan" makes people sleepy, there is no real scientific basis for this. Tryptophan is found in many things we eat, and it is not in much more significant quantity in turkey than in other things we eat.
However, when we eat at Thanksgiving, we tend to eat more food in a short amount of time, and a lot of heavy foods. Eating stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (part of the autonomic nervous system). This system diverts blood toward digestive organs, and away from muscle. It also leads to decreased heart rate, and allows blood flow to pool in our veins, decreasing overall bloodflow.
2006-11-25 07:48:01 · answer #1 · answered by Brian B 4 · 2⤊ 1⤋
It's not the turkey, its the greasy overabundant meal. Blood flow id directed to your intestines and stomach so they can be active during their odisey, and your brain and limbs have reduced blood flow and a kind of weakness that feels like you need to sleep
2006-11-25 07:50:29 · answer #2 · answered by carlospvog 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
i'm not sure its especially turkey making you sleepy.
i think every meal does that.
in case its tasty you may eat too much.
you feel satisfied and the urgent need to rest.
2006-11-25 07:48:18 · answer #3 · answered by blondnirvana 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋