Carlos Solis
There are times when, despite a full night of sleep, we still feel drained. Researchers in the U.S. suggest that the cause may not only be stress or age but also the common foods on our plates. This was reported by Daily Mail.
The Culprit: Tyramine
Experts have found that an excess of tyramine—a substance that affects the brain and the nervous system—can trigger excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). The results of this study were published in the journal Lancet eBioMedicine.
Five “Dangerous” Foods
The highest levels of tyramine are found in:
- aged cheeses (cheddar, brie, feta, parmesan);
- cured and processed meats (salami, bacon, sausages, pepperoni, mortadella);
- spreads made from yeast extract;
- pickled fish and dried salted products;
- overripe fruits.
Consuming these foods may explain feelings of “heaviness” and fatigue throughout the day.
What Scientists Recommend
Study author Tarik Fakih, a doctoral candidate in the Sleep Disorders and Circadian Rhythm department at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, emphasizes that simple dietary changes can reduce symptoms of sleepiness. The next step is to verify these results in clinical trials.
Researchers also suggest that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from foods may help lower the risk of EDS.
Why This Matters
Daytime sleepiness can be not only a result of stress or aging but also a signal of other health issues—such as sleep disorders, dementia, or heart failure. Doctors advise closely monitoring your condition and not ignoring warning signs.
It turns out that your favorite slice of cheese or sausage before bed might not bring you joy but could rob you of energy the next day.
Photo: Unsplash
