Health Watch (Food Coma)

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Decoding Food Coma to Check Dozing at Odd Hours

Food consumption beyond limits can wreak havoc on human health. Latest researches show that several disorders might stem from an uncontrolled intake to disrupt the internal biological system, inducing complications like food coma or postprandial somnolence. Let’s listen to what medical expert Dr. Rituja Ugalmugle has to say.

By PRAMITA BOSE

If you are caught napping after a heavy meal, you are probably suffering from postprandial somnolence, commonly called food coma. It induces excessive sleepiness, fatigue and sinking energy levels soon after consuming food. As a result, the regular routine of a person complaining of this malaise goes for a toss.

Medics sit up and take notice of this latest find on the health map, jeopardising a normal physical condition. But what causes the ailment of food coma? “Primarily physiological factors like the role of insulin, blood flow redistribution and hormonal changes,” informs Dr Rituja Ugalmugle, department of internal medicine at Wodkhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central.

“After eating meals with high-carbohydrate content in particular, the body releases insulin to help regulate the blood sugar levels. Insulin facilitates the uptake of tryptophan (growth-driving amino acid) into the brain, which is then converted into serotonin and subsequently melatonin, both of which propel switching on the snooze button. Also, the increased blood flow during digestion is directed towards the gastrointestinal tract to help absorb nutrients, potentially reducing its circulation to the brain and eventually causing drowsiness. Lastly, the release of digestive hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) can too induce satiety and tiredness,” she elaborates.

But does food coma strike mainly post lunch or after every meal? “It can occur after any meal but it is more commonly detected post lunch. This may be due to the typical sumptuous meal courses served at luncheons with an abundance of carbohydrates. Plus, the natural circadian dip in alertness happens during early afternoons, making the body groggy,” explains the general physician.

The medical fraternity assures of tackling the issue with definitive solutions. It prescribes to manage postprandial slumber involving dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

“Frequent intakes in small, bite-sized portions can help prevent massive insulin spikes. A balanced diet including a mix of proteins, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates can stabilise the glucose level in blood. Moreover, staying well-hydrated helps maintain the energy tank. Finally, some light physical activity post meal, such as a short walk, may help offset the lethargy,” reports Dr. Ugalmugle.

She also observes that “there are specific food items or categories more likely to cause food coma.”

“Foods rich in simple sugars and starches (e.g. white bread, pastries) can rapidly induce a sugar rush and the surge in insulin level. Meals with an adequate dose of fat can decelerate digestion, prolonging sluggishness and the feeling of being overfed. Plus, eating in large quantities might exacerbate these effects,” instances the medico.

It is advisable to incorporate proteins, fibres and healthy fats with carbohydrates in your daily diet. “Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, legumes and vegetables, which slow down the spike in blood sugar,” she suggests.

Often the question crops up if eating any less can subside or aggravate the problem of postprandial somnolence. “Well, it works only when lavish meals are avoided to overload the digestive system. However, it is important to maintain balanced nutrition because eating too little can induce more indolence and a drop in blood sugar levels,” she warns.

Besides having forty winks or experiencing weariness, there are a few notable symptoms of this malady like bloating, indigestion and shrunken concentration. “While occasional bouts of food coma are not typically harmful, chronic surplus eating and frequent rise in blood sugar may spawn long-term health hazards like obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” inputs Dr Ugalmugle.

Visiting the clinic for a timely diagnosis or an early consultation can help cope with any potential health risks effectively. “Persistent symptoms could indicate diabetes, sporadic sleep syndrome or gastrointestinal issues,” concludes the medical practitioner.

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