What organic compound in turkey is often blamed for making you sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner?
Dopamine
Tryptophan
Melatonin
Triglyceride
The organic compound often blamed for inducing drowsiness after Thanksgiving dinner is tryptophan. Found in turkey meat, tryptophan is an amino acid that serves as a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with relaxation and sleep regulation. While it is true that turkey contains tryptophan, the amount present is not significantly higher than in many other poultry or meat products. The post-Thanksgiving drowsiness is more likely attributed to the overall large and rich meal consumed during the holiday feast, which can lead to increased blood flow to the digestive system and a general feeling of lethargy.
The correct answer is Tryptophan.