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Why do I have no energy after eating?
Low Energy/Tired
/core-emotion/low-energy-tired
Feeling low energy after eating is often caused by digestion drawing blood flow and resources away from the brain and muscles. Large meals, high sugar intake, or rapid blood sugar shifts can increase tiredness temporarily, especially if the nervous system is already under load.
After food, the body prioritises digestion. This can activate the parasympathetic ('rest and digest') response, which naturally lowers alertness. Meals high in refined carbohydrates or eaten quickly can also trigger sharper rises and drops in blood glucose, making fatigue feel heavier or sudden.
This doesn’t mean something is wrong. Post-meal tiredness usually reflects how the body processes food under current stress and energy conditions, not a lack of fitness or motivation.
Things to try
For one meal, note how tired you feel 20 minutes after finishing, then compare it with another meal eaten more slowly, checking whether pacing changes the intensity of fatigue.
On two different days, compare energy levels after a lighter meal versus a heavier one, checking which leaves you feeling more stable rather than sluggish within the first 30 minutes.
For 5 minutes after eating, play low-tempo instrumental music at a quiet volume and notice whether your breathing and posture settle more quickly than they do without sound, checking at the end whether fatigue feels calmer rather than heavy or foggy.
After eating, take a 3–5 minute gentle walk and notice whether energy lifts slightly or stays flat, using that change to judge whether digestion-related sluggishness is affecting you.
Micro wellness practice
A super quick, 1 minute or less wellness practice for you to try right now. If the first one doesn't work for you, just try another! Give it a click! Have fun.
Micro Practice
Prep
Description
Why
Music To Try
This music has been carefully chosen in response to the question above. It's completely free, just click the play button.
Facilitate Change 417 Hz
The 417 Hz frequency is there to help facilitate change.
The piano and instruments that make up the soundscape/choir are all tuned to 417 Hz.
22 mins
Breathe
By tapping into networks using the breath, we gain access to a powerful tool for regulating our responses to stress and sleep.
15 mins
Affirmations
These affirmations are simple reminders that it’s okay to slow down when you’re feeling tired. You might read one and pause with it, return to it while listening to the music (above), or just let the words pass through your awareness. Use them in whatever way feels supportive, without pressure or expectation.
Intention
Affirmation
Products and services
The items listed below have been selected to gently support low energy and ongoing fatigue. Some links may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. I only recommend options I genuinely trust and feel aligned with a thoughtful, restorative approach to wellbeing.
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Low Energy/Tired