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The Symptoms of Fatigue After Eating

Many people experience a feeling of fatigue or lethargy after eating, which may involve mental and physical fatigue, but can also involve muscle weakness. Although fatigue after an occasional meal is OK, some tend to feel fatigue after eating every meal, which can become a cause for concern. Other symptoms may accompany fatigue after eating.

  1. Stomach Problems

    • Stomach problems often accompany the feeling of fatigue after food consumption and can involve pain or cramps in the stomach, diarrhea, bloating and nausea. This can be a result of the type of foods consumed or the amount of foods consumed in a given meal. Poor digestive health can lead to other health conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

    Difficulty Concentrating

    • Fatigue after eating can also involve problems with concentration, nervousness, irritability and confusion. People may feel like they are not capable of functioning properly after eating. For those with hypoglycemia, they may also experience shakiness, headaches, irritability and signs of weakness as well.

    Dizziness

    • Some who experience fatigue after eating also feel dizzy, which may be a sign of eating too much sugar, food poisoning or food allergies or a sign of another health condition. Those who are tired after eating may have issues with the auditory system, osteoarthritis, gastritis, heart disease or renal problems that flare up after eating.

    Causes

    • One of the most common reasons for feeling lethargic after a meal is a result of the sugars or carbohydrates consumed. Sugars provide short-term energy, but once that energy is consumed, it is common to feel a drop in energy. Alternative causes might include stress, lack of stimulation, lack of sleep and other issues. Other potential health issues that cause lethargy after eating include chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, insomnia, autoimmune problems, anemia, and other medical conditions.

    Prevention and Treatment

    • Fatigue or lethargy after eating can be addressed by making a change in daily habits, such as avoiding spicy foods, sugary foods and high carbohydrate foods. Instead of having meals that have large portions, have several smaller meals throughout the day. Indigestion and bloating can be avoided by having an adequate amount of water and high fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables. If a person has continual fatigue after eating, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out other health issues.

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