Tryptophan is an essential amino acid crucial for good health. Human bodies need tryptophan to build certain kinds of proteins. Tryptophan is needed for the production of niacin (vitamin B3).The body uses tryptophan in a multi-step process to make serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate sleep, stable mood, and the feeling of happiness. Turkey, pork, lamb, and beef are excellent sources of tryptophan

L-Tryptophan and the Turkey

The turkey is often cited as the culprit in after dinner lethargy, but the truth is that you could omit the bird altogether and still feel the effects of the feast. Turkey does contain L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid with a documented sleep inducing effect. 

Post-Thanksgiving dinner drowsiness may be the result of a heavy meal rich in carbohydrates which, via an indirect mechanism, increases the production of sleep-promoting melatonin in the brain.  In essence, big meals with any food containing tryptophan can cause sleepiness. The real culprits are all those carbohydrates from potatoes, stuffing, bread and pie. The massive intake of carb-heavy calories stimulates the release of insulin, which in turn triggers the uptake of most amino acids from the blood into the muscles except for tryptophan. 

The Better Alternatives

1. Sweet potato instead of regular white potatoes
2. Brown rice/gluten free bread with herbs instead of regular stuffing
3. Make your own cranberry sauce!
4. Gluten free bread (brown rice, buckwheat, millet, quinoa) instead of whole wheat/white bread

A Must try for this Thanksgiving Dinner… makes for a great appetizer.

Baked Pumpkin

Cut a whole pumpkin in half.  Remove the seeds.  Place on a baking pan, cut sides down.  Bake at 350F for 35-45 min or until soft.  Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg and enjoy with a splash of “EVOO” (Extra virgin olive oil)!

Have a great Thanksgiving Weekend!

Ask Dr. Maria Papasodaro, your Naturopathic Doctor how to begin your journey to wellness.