Doctor reveals real reason behind 3pm slump

Hi Dr Zac, every Christmas I encounter the exact same conundrum. I wake up with bounding energy but right after lunch, around 3pm, I become lethargic to the point I must have a nap. Can you explain the science behind my Christmas food coma?Matty, 45, South AustraliaA food coma isn’t just an excuse to avoid small talk at the table, there is real science behind why you feel lethargic after a big meal. There are some basic tricks to dodge the drowsiness to keep you awake all day.

I’m sure someone at the Christmas table will try and tell you the reason for your drowsiness is because blood is directed away from our brain to your gut. That’s not correct: it’s proven our muscles are given less blood, which is why you may feel weak after a big meal. Particular amino acids, such as Tryptophan, trigger relaxation hormones. The high insulin levels caused by Christmas lunch, might make it easier for these amino acids to get into our brain and subsequently set off our relaxation signalling pathway.It’s also found in spinach, soy, eggs, cheese, tofu and fish.

My other advice is to drink plenty of water before, during and after lunch. Try upping your electrolyte levels by sipping on coconut water or cucumber water.Exercise in the morning may keep you feeling fit all day, as long as it isn’t too strenuous on your body. And if you really want to have energy to burn during the afternoon’s backyard cricket match – limit your alcohol intake. You will be amazed at how much more energy you will have.

Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Prosecutors ask to drop most charges in doctor rape caseCalifornia state prosecutors have asked a judge to dismiss most sex crime charges filed against a reality TV doctor and his girlfriend, who are accused of drugging and raping several women at their Southern California home. 9News America taking sex crimes seriously i see sick people
Source: 9NewsAUS - 🏆 10. / 72 Read more »

Doctor dies after publicly declaring COVID-19 vaccine ‘unnecessary’A high-profile doctor who endorsed controversial treatments for coronavirus has died in hospital after contracting the virus. So he was murdered for not following the narrative Well that worked out good for him, but I hope that he didn't have too many believers that followed him blindly.
Source: newscomauHQ - 🏆 9. / 77 Read more »

Doctor who had sex with patient free to return to practice despite watchdog inquiryA Melbourne doctor has been granted permission to return to practice after having sex with a patient in a toilet cubicle at St Kilda’s Hotel Esplanade in 2019, which is the subject of an ongoing investigation by the health industry regulator.
Source: theage - 🏆 8. / 77 Read more »

Doctor on why it’s OK to eat off the floorThe 'five-second rule' is a much disputed concept that some of us think is gross but others don’t mind. But one doctor has finally settled the debate. Didn't read the article but Are. You. Serious! No thank you 🙏 Coincidentally how I ended up divorced. My wife stripped naked after dinner then lay on the floor & said come eat desert. Stuff that, I know all about the 5 second rule.
Source: newscomauHQ - 🏆 9. / 77 Read more »

Cafe owner sues doctor, private hospital over cardiac arrestA Hobart cafe owner, who had a cardiac arrest at 31, is suing two doctors and a private hospital for failing to detect his heart condition despite complaining of chest pain years earlier. What an arrogant, self-entitled jerk. You’d think he would count his blessings he is still alive. Instead, he’s trying to link together separate, possibly totally unrelated events over the course of years. My guess is he’ll lose and also end up paying costs.
Source: abcnews - 🏆 5. / 83 Read more »