The dreaded "food coma" is real—but a heavy meal doesn't have to knock you out. Here are a handful of ways to cure it fast!
10 Simple Ways to Cure a Food Coma
Updated on Jan. 14, 2022
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Drink water
You may be tempted to skip that glass of water if you’re feeling bloated after a big meal, but your body needs that hydration. Drinking more water will help your digestive system flush out the extra sodium that’s causing your fingers to swell like sausages.
Pump up your water’s flavor with fun ice cubes or by infusing it with fruit and herbs.
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Eat a light breakfast
You may still be feeling full and sluggish the morning after your food coma, but don’t be tempted to skip breakfast. That will only leave your blood sugar level too low, causing more fatigue and cravings. Whip up something light like this green breakfast smoothie to give your body a little pick-me-up.
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Go for a walk
A walk in the cold is probably not what you’re craving right now, but there’s no quicker way to beat a food coma. Some brisk activity can get your digestive tract moving, as well as wake you up from that food fatigue. So grab your boots and a friend and head out the door!
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Have a cup of tea
If you’re feeling uncomfortably full after dinner, try a soothing cup of tea. Your body needs the fluids, and it’s a good idea to skip that second glass of wine anyway. Mint or cinnamon tea can settle your stomach and get you back to feeling like yourself.
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Stick with small meals
Because your body is working hard to break down and digest a big meal, stick with smaller meals the day after you overeat. This will keep your digestive tract moving along while helping you stay energized. Try quick, simple meals like smoothies, soup and healthy salads.
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Increase your fruits and veggies
If you’re still craving a little something sweet after a big dinner, stick with hydrating fruit like watermelon. (Sugar will only add to that bloated, tired feeling.) Your body will be craving foods high in fiber, so load up on the fruits and vegetables to feel better fast.
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Avoid alcohol
Everyone loves a little cheer, but alcohol will only make your food coma worse. That cocktail will leave you feeling sluggish and dehydrated. If you find yourself overeating at a party, take a break from alcoholic drinks and have a glass of water instead.
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Try a yoga twist
Yoga is the perfect activity to break you out of your food coma. It’s gentle and soothing and can even help you digest your food. Twisting poses stimulate digestion, so try one a few hours after your big meal. You could also do a few poses before your meal to try and prevent the coma in the first place.
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Drink black coffee
When you have a food coma, the only thing you want is a nap. Going right to bed will leave you feeling groggy and full when you wake up. (No good!) Instead, enjoy a warm cup of black coffee after dinner. It will perk you up without adding extra sugar or calories.
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Throw a dance party
Can’t get yourself out the door for a post-dinner walk? Pump up the tunes and start a kitchen dance party! You’ll shake off your food coma while also establishing yourself as the fun aunt or uncle.
