why do we get tired after eating

People get tired after eating primarily because their body uses energy to digest food, blood flow is redirected to the digestive system, and changes in blood sugar and hormones can induce sleepiness. Larger or calorie-dense meals require more energy for digestion, which can make one feel sleepy. Meals high in carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index, cause a rapid increase and then drop in blood sugar, contributing to fatigue. Hormones like serotonin and melatonin, influenced by certain foods and digestion, also promote drowsiness after eating. Additionally, eating heavy meals rich in fat and carbs can spike hormones causing sluggishness. Other factors include the timing of meals, underlying health conditions, and overall sleep quality, all of which can impact post-meal tiredness.