The effect of red meat on sleep is a complex and controversial topic; some people report worse sleep while others claim they sleep better.
One reason eating red meat can make you sleepy is because it’s high in fat and protein. These require a lot of energy for your body to break down, which can leave you feeling tired and lethargic.
But don’t let this sensation fool you into eating red meat close to bedtime, as research suggests late-night eating may hinder your ability to drop off.
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This is because an active digestive system isn’t conducive to a restful state and can cause disruptions to your natural body clock, as well as sleep apnea and acid reflux.
Red meat also contains the amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine, which are precursors for serotonin, dopamine and melatonin – chemicals responsible for regulating your body clock and making you sleepy.
But a recent study found that eating meat actually decreases sleep duration and quality and that this effect gets worse the more meat is eaten.
Scientists believe this is because red meat contains other amino acids that compete for absorption in the brain, meaning there’s less tyrosine and tryptophan available to be converted into sleepy chemicals.
Hence, their sleep-inducing effects may be reduced.
Ultimately, the impact of red meat on sleep varies from person to person. It may depend on things like the specific amino acid composition of a meal, different sleeping patterns, and differences in metabolism and responses to nutrients.
This article is an answer to the question (asked by Melissa McBride, Sandwich) 'Why do I sleep so well after eating red meat?'
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