
Why do I feel sleepy right after eating breakfast every morning? What could be the reason?
I am a 30-year-old office worker. Recently, I've noticed that I feel particularly drowsy and tend to fall asleep easily every morning after eating a meal, which affects my work efficiency. I would like to understand the causes behind this phenomenon.

The phenomenon of feeling sleepy after eating in the morning is medically referred to as "postprandial somnolence" or "post-meal fatigue." This typically occurs because, after eating, the digestive system requires a significant amount of blood to assist in breaking down food, resulting in a relatively reduced blood flow to the brain and thereby causing drowsiness. If a large amount of high-carbohydrate foods are consumed for breakfast, the rapid rise followed by a drop in blood sugar levels can also contribute to feelings of fatigue.
Try incorporating more protein and fiber into your breakfast, and avoid excessive refined carbohydrates such as white bread and desserts, which can cause rapid spikes and subsequent drops in blood sugar levels, intensifying post-meal tiredness. Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking, after meals can promote blood circulation and alleviate drowsiness. Ensuring adequate sleep at night helps improve alertness during the day. Avoid sitting or lying down immediately after eating; standing for a while can aid digestion and reduce feelings of fatigue.
It is advisable to consult a doctor or nutritionist to rule out other potential health issues.