After the feast: How to beat the infamous food coma!

After the feast: How to beat the infamous food coma!

After a sumptuous feast, many people are familiar with the feeling of sudden tiredness, which often causes a decrease in activity. Known as “food coma,” this phenomenon is triggered by several physiological processes that occur in the body after eating. As “Heute.at” reports, digestion requires a lot of energy, which directs the blood to the stomach and intestinal region. This reduces blood flow to the brain, which can result in sleepiness. In addition, high carbohydrate and fat contents in meals play a crucial role: a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by an abrupt drop, makes many people feel weak after eating.

The role of hormones and nutrition

Neurologist Christopher Winter explains that the amino acid tryptophan also contributes to this fatigue, as it is converted in the brain to serotonin and later to melatonin, creating a relaxing effect. These hormonal changes increase feelings of fatigue, especially after heavy meals. The type of food also has an influence: carbohydrate-rich food such as white bread or sweets quickly raises blood sugar levels, while protein-rich foods such as meat and nuts keep you full for longer, but can also lead to a feeling of heaviness, as “ferwer.de” has found.

There are a few simple measures you can take to combat fatigue. Exercise, such as a short walk after eating, can aid digestion and boost energy levels. Experts also recommend eating smaller portions to minimize strain on the digestive system and avoid sudden blood sugar fluctuations. Especially during the festive season, when there are plenty of gourmet meals on the menu, sticking to lighter eating habits and supporting the intestinal flora with probiotics can help increase overall vitality and avoid excessive fatigue.