If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t pay too much attention to how you sleep. After a long day of work, taking care of family, and maybe squeezing in a bit of personal time, the last thing on your mind is whether you’re lying on your left or right side when you finally crawl into bed. The main thing is to get enough sleep, right?

But it turns out that the way you sleep might actually matter more than you think. While we all have our preferred sleeping positions, the benefits of sleeping on your left side are worth considering. You may not have thought about it before, but this simple shift could have a significant impact on your health.

Nighttime Heartburn Relief

For those who suffer from acid reflux or heartburn, sleeping on your left side can be a game changer. When you sleep on your left side, your stomach sits lower than your esophagus. This positioning helps reduce the chances of stomach acid creeping up into the esophagus, the root cause of that uncomfortable burning sensation often associated with heartburn.

Improved Spleen and Liver Function

Sleeping on your left side also benefits your spleen. This position helps promote proper blood flow to the spleen, aiding in the filtering of impurities from your body and supporting overall immune health. In addition to the spleen, sleeping on your left side also supports your liver. The liver is situated on the right side of the body, and sleeping on your left side helps it function more effectively, promoting better detoxification.

Pregnancy Benefits

Pregnant women, especially in their third trimester, are often advised to sleep on their left side. This position allows for better circulation, as it helps reduce pressure on the liver, promotes healthy blood flow, and supports heart function. Additionally, sleeping on your left side during pregnancy can be safer for the baby, as sleeping on the back has been linked to an increased risk of stillbirth.

Promotes Healthy Bowel Movements

The left side of your body houses the ileocecal valve, which connects the large and small intestines. Sleeping on your left side can help promote healthy digestion by supporting the movement of waste from the small to the large intestine. This position uses gravity to your advantage, making it easier for your body to process and eliminate waste.

When to Switch Positions

Despite the benefits of left-side sleeping, it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is different. The key is comfort. If sleeping on your left side doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to experiment with other positions. For example, side-sleeping can sometimes put extra pressure on your shoulders, which may exacerbate any existing discomfort or pain. The most important thing is to find a position that allows you to rest well and wake up feeling refreshed.

Ultimately, whether you sleep on your left side, right side, or even on your back, the goal should be a restful night’s sleep. However, if you’re looking to improve your health and promote better digestion or heartburn relief, shifting to the left side might be a simple and beneficial change to consider.

Do you have a favorite sleeping position? If so, share your thoughts in the comments. You might just start a conversation about how people can improve their sleep and their health!