When feeling tired, many of us reach for sugary snacks like honey, energy drinks, or juices for a quick energy boost.
Hold off—researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered it often backfires, promoting sleepiness instead.
The key is orexin, a neuropeptide produced by the hypothalamus that regulates wakefulness. To stay alert, these orexin cells need stimulation, particularly from certain foods.
Studies show that sugar slows orexin secretion, easing you into sleep and even prolonging it—explaining that post-sugar slump.
So why opt for a sugary breakfast? The same Cambridge team found that pairing sugars with proteins counteracts this effect on orexin cells.
That's reassuring news for maintaining energy throughout the day.
