Low-Carb Atkins Diet Could Cause Sleepiness During Daytime (PICTURES)

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Could you diet be making you sleepy?

A new study suggests that your level of sleepiness or alertness during the day may be related to the type of food that you eat.

Researchers from the Penn State College of Medicine in America found that 31 healthy, non-obese normal sleepers, who ate large amounts of fat, were more sleepy during waking hours than study volunteers who consumed more carbohydrate.

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However, researchers also pointed that there was no relationship between protein consumption and sleepiness or alertness.

"Increased fat consumption has an acute adverse effect on alertness of otherwise healthy, non-obese adults," said professor of psychiatry, Alexandros Vgontza, in a statement.

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These findings echo previous studies that have shown a similar association between diet and objective sleepiness, he adds.

"Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue are very prevalent in the modern world and on the rise," said Vgontzas.

"It appears that a diet high in fat decreases alertness acutely, and this may have an impact on an individual's ability to function and also public safety."

:: The research was published in an online supplement of the journal Sleep and the finding will be presented at SLEEP 2013, on June 4.

Take a look at carbs that can help you keep your weight under control...

Healthy Carbs

Whole-Wheat Pasta(01 of06)

Because sometimes you just need pasta -- and whole-wheat kinds offer two to three times more fiber than refined white varieties, but they're just as versatile and delicious. (Similarly, whole-wheat bread and brown rice are healthier choices than their "white" counterparts.) Try our healthier fettuccine Alfredo and more lightened-up pasta recipes for a healthy dinner tonight.To cook: Follow the package directions!More from EatingWell:9 "Bad" Foods You Should Be Eating 6 More Reasons Your Body Needs Carbs Ditch These 4 Foods to Clean Up Your DietFlickr photo by Kari Sullivan (credit:Flickr:ilovemypit)

Quinoa(02 of06)

Consider it souped-up couscous. A delicately flavored whole grain, it provides some fiber (two grams per half-cup) and a good amount of protein (four grams). Note: Research shows protein can help you feel full for longer. Rinsing quinoa removes any residue of saponin, its natural bitter protective coating. Try adding quinoa to your diet with our delicious Pear-Quinoa Salad and more healthy ideas for quinoa.To cook: Bring 2 cups water or broth to a boil; add 1 cup quinoa. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook until the liquid has been absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork.Flickr photo by Kim Woodbridge (credit:Flickr:kwbridge)

Barley(03 of06)

Available "pearled" (the bran has been removed) or "quick-cooking" (parboiled). While both contain soluble fiber that helps keep blood cholesterol levels healthy, pearl barley has a little more.To cook: Pearl barley -- Bring 1 cup barley and 2.5 cups water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer; cook, covered, until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, 40 to 50 minutes. Let stand five minutes. For quick-cooking barley -- Bring 1.75 cups water or broth to a boil; add 1 cup barley. Reduce heat to a simmer; cook, covered, until tender, 10 to 12 minutes.Flickr photo by frostnova (credit:Flickr:frostnova)

Bulgur(04 of06)

Cracked wheat that's been parboiled so it simply needs to soak in hot water for most uses -- a perfect low-maintenance grain. It's also a good source of feel-full fiber: just half a cup delivers five grams.To cook: Pour 1.5 cups boiling water or broth over 1 cup bulgur. Let stand, covered, until light and fluffy, about 30 minutes. If all the water is not absorbed, let the bulgur stand longer or press it in a strainer to remove excess liquid.Flickr photo by Rooey202 (credit:Flickr:Rooey202)

Wheat Berries(05 of06)

These are the whole, unprocessed kernels of wheat. They're terrific sources of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, zinc and yes, fiber.To cook: Sort through wheat berries carefully, discarding any stones, and rinse with water. Bring 4 cups water or broth and 1 cup wheat berries to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, but still a little chewy, about one hour. Drain.Flickr photo by Rooey202 (credit:Flickr:Rooey202)

Popcorn(06 of06)

Because when you're craving pretzels or potato chips... You're certainly not going to reach for a bowl of oatmeal. Popcorn satisfies a snack craving and it's a whole grain. No, I'm not kidding: Three cups of popped popcorn (what you get by popping one heaping tablespoon of kernels) equals one of your three recommended daily servings of whole grains and contains three grams of fiber. To cook: Toss a heaping tablespoon into an air popper.More from EatingWell:9 "Bad" Foods You Should Be Eating 6 More Reasons Your Body Needs Carbs Ditch These 4 Foods to Clean Up Your DietFlickr photo by Lisa Clarke (credit:Flickr:lisaclarke)

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