Many people believe that turkey makes them sleepy due to the presence of tryptophan, an essential amino acid that contributes to serotonin and melatonin production in the body
. However, tryptophan is found in many other foods besides turkey, such as cheese, chicken, egg whites, fish, milk, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, soybeans, and sunflower seeds
. Moreover, the amount of tryptophan in turkey is not enough to cause significant drowsiness on its own
. Instead, overeating in general, especially foods high in carbohydrates, can cause fatigue and sleepiness after a big meal
. Additionally, lack of sleep in the days leading up to the big event and finally being able to relax after the dinner is over can also contribute to feeling sleepy
