Is it common to feel sleep after lunch? Some people see it as an asset, but on the other hand, some people do not feel as productive for the rest of the afternoon. Doctors clarify the phenomenon and teach how to avoid power failure.
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26/06/2026
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A drowsiness after lunchtime it's more common than you think. Doctors have revealed to Very Well Health that the origin of this phenomenon may result from combination of several factors, from biological to behavioral.
Take note of what may be influencing your sleep routines and providing these you break power when you finish lunch.
The kind of food you prioritize during lunchtime
According to these doctors, some types of food have nutrients that can enhance tiredness after meals.
Melatonin-rich foods
“Melatonin is a hormone that the brain produces in response to darkness. This makes the mind and body begin to relax and make you sleepy. Melatonin is also present in many foods and can contribute to energy drop after meals.” Here are foods with high melatonin content:
Barley
Maize
Cucumbers
Eggs
Mushroom
Oats
Pistachios
Rice
Salmon
Strawberries
Cherries
Carbon hydrates
“ Foods rich in carbohydrates can cause fatigue due to the high glycaemic index, which also increases blood sugar levels and are more likely to induce tiredness after meals.” Here are the foods that can cause this fall:
Bread
Cereals
Potatoes
Sugar
Watermelon
White rice
The amounts of food and drink
According to these experts, excessive calorie intake “at once” is also associated with a significant increase in fatigue after meals.
Alcoholic beverages, in turn, although they may cause an initial state of sleepiness, these experts clarify that this effect is not synonymous with sleep quality and, moreover, does not last that long.
How to relieve the feeling of sleepiness after lunchtime?
Eat lighter meals
Prioritize rest at night
Exercise regularly