Turkey gets a bad rep for putting you into a food coma, come Thanksgiving. That’s because the bird contains tryptophan, an amino acid that produces a brain chemical called serotonin, which makes you feel relaxed and sleepy.
But the truth is that chicken and pork contain just as much tryptophan as turkey does. However, nutritionists say that you should actually blame the sides and desserts.
Dishes like mashed potatos and pumpkin pie are rich in carbs and boost insulin. There’s also the fact that many people indulge in wine, beer and other types of booze that make them groggy and make them feel like napping after the big family dinner.