Did you know that switching your sleep position could dramatically improve your health and even save your life? Research shows that sleeping on your left side may be the secret to better digestion, improved brain health, and a healthier heart.1
So why is the left side so special? Here’s reasons behind this phenomenon and how to train your body to adopt this life-changing sleep position.
The Digestive Benefits of Left-Side Sleeping
If you suffer from digestive issues like heartburn or constipation, your sleep position could be to blame. When you sleep on your right side, the stomach sits higher than the esophagus, allowing acid to flow back up and cause irritation.
This can lead to painful heartburn and indigestion that disrupts your sleep.
By contrast, sleeping on your left side keeps the stomach below the esophagus, using gravity to prevent acid reflux. Left-side sleeping also promotes waste movement through the colon, potentially easing constipation and bloating. (ref)
For optimal digestive health, experts recommend starting on your left side at night and using a supportive pillow to maintain alignment.
Boosting Brain Health & Preventing Neurological Diseases
Could your sleep position affect your risk of developing Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease? Emerging research suggests that sleeping on the side may be crucial to brain health. (ref)
Sleeping on your left or right side appears to help the body clear toxins and waste products from the brain more effectively than sleeping on your back or stomach.
This “brain cleanse” process, primarily during sleep, is essential for preventing the buildup of harmful proteins associated with neurological diseases.
While more studies are needed to confirm the link in humans, prioritizing side sleeping could be a simple way to promote long-term brain health and reduce your risk of cognitive decline.
Improving Circulation & Heart Health
Sleeping on the left side can benefit pregnant women and people with certain heart conditions.
During pregnancy, left-side sleeping improves circulation to the heart, ensuring that both mom and baby receive optimal blood flow. This position also relieves pressure on the liver and helps prevent undue strain on the back. (ref)
Similarly, some studies suggest that people with congestive heart failure may experience less discomfort and better circulation when sleeping on their right side. (ref)
Right-side sleeping could help stabilize these individuals’ blood pressure and heart rate by allowing the heart more room to pump effectively.
As always, it’s best to consult your doctor for personalized recommendations based on your specific health needs.
Tips for Comfortable Left-Side Sleeping
Transitioning to side sleeping can be adjusted if you’re used to sleeping on your back or stomach.
Invest in a supportive mattress and pillow that maintains proper spinal alignment to make the switch as comfortable as possible. Place a firm pillow between your knees to reduce pressure on your hips and lower back.
Alternating sides throughout the night is important to prevent shoulder and arm numbness. If you wake up on your back or stomach, try using a body pillow or positioning a regular pillow behind your back to discourage rolling over.
With a little patience and persistence, you’ll be reaping the benefits of left-side sleeping in no time.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
