Tag: Turkey myth

According to a 2016 review of studies, the essential amino acid tryptophan promotes good sleep and a good mood, but the myth that eating turkey will make you immediately drowsy is not so straightforward. While tryptophan is a precursor to sleep-regulating hormones like serotonin and melatonin, the presence of other amino acids in food limits its impact.

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid required for normal growth and protein production in the body. While it's widely discussed for its role in mood and sleep, the full story of tryptophan is more complex than popular myths suggest.

Despite the popular myth blaming Thanksgiving sleepiness on turkey, the amino acid tryptophan is found in many different foods. The idea that turkey is the sole or even the most potent source is a misconception perpetuated by holiday lore. Many other protein-rich foods, and some plants, contain significant amounts of this essential nutrient.

According to nutrition experts, you would have to consume about 8 pounds of turkey in one sitting to get a supplemental dose of tryptophan large enough to induce sleepiness. The popular belief that a few slices of turkey can make you tired is a widespread misconception, as the true cause of post-feast drowsiness is far more complex than a single amino acid.