The organic compound in turkey often blamed for making you sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner is tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body cannot produce on its own, so you must get it from food. Turkey is a relatively high-protein food, and protein is made up of amino acids, so turkey contains a significant amount of tryptophan.
Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, sleep, and appetite. Serotonin is also converted into melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. When you eat a meal that is high in tryptophan, the levels of tryptophan in your bloodstream increase. This can lead to an increase in serotonin production, which can make you feel relaxed and sleepy.
However, it is important to note that the amount of tryptophan in turkey is not enough to cause drowsiness on its own. Other factors, such as the overall size of the meal, the amount of carbohydrates consumed, and the presence of alcohol, can also contribute to sleepiness after Thanksgiving dinner.