If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t pay much attention to how you sleep. After a long day of work, playing with the kids, cooking, and maybe relaxing for a bit, you’re just ready to get to bed and fall asleep.
For me, as long as I get enough sleep, I’m happy. But it turns out, the way we sleep can actually have an impact on our health. Sure, the position we sleep in may seem like a small detail, but it might be worth thinking about, especially when it comes to the side you lie on.
Most people have a preferred side to sleep on – some sleep on their right side, others on their left, and some even sleep on their back. However, sleeping on your left side, in particular, has some health benefits.
For starters, if you struggle with heartburn or acid reflux, sleeping on your left side might help. This position keeps your stomach below your esophagus, which can reduce the chance of acid flowing back up and causing discomfort.
Another benefit is to the spleen and liver. Sleeping on your left side helps blood flow to the spleen, allowing it to filter out impurities better and support your immune system. It also helps with liver detoxification, as the liver is on the right side of the body.
For pregnant women, sleeping on the left side is especially recommended. It improves blood flow, helps the heart pump more efficiently, and reduces pressure on the liver. This is particularly important in the later stages of pregnancy.
Sleeping on your left side can also aid bowel movement. The left side of your body houses the ileocecal valve, which helps move waste from the small to the large intestine. Gravity plays a role in this, making the process smoother.
That said, sleeping on your left side isn’t essential for everyone. It’s most important to find a comfortable position that works for you. If side-sleeping causes any discomfort, don’t hesitate to switch it up.