As far as sleeping habits go, the vast majority of us have one that we like. So, while we're claiming our forty winks, a side of preference. People have different preferences when it comes to which side of the bed they like to sleep on. Some people even lay on their backs all night long, much like the pharaohs.
However, we felt it was only fair to share some of the many possible health benefits of sleeping on your left side with you, our dear readers, as it turns out that this position offers a lot of advantages.
So, from whence does all this emanate? Okay, so here are some claims made by various internet sites on the benefits of sleeping on your left side, yet the truth is that it all comes down to personal taste when it comes to comfort:
Heartburn at Night
Stomach acid reflux and GERD sufferers may find comfort by sleeping on their left side. Heartburn, a painful acid reflux condition, is less likely to occur when the stomach is in this posture because it keeps the stomach below the esophagus.
Liver and kidney health
Next, we have the spleen's role. You may improve the organ's ability to detoxify your body and bolster your immune system by sleeping on your left side, which increases blood flow to the area.
In a similar vein, being on the correct side of your body may have a positive effect on your liver. If you want your body to digest pollutants and other things more efficiently, sleeping on your left side may help.
Expectant moms
Sleep Foundation recommends that pregnant women, wherever feasible, sleep on their left side since this position facilitates the heart's ability to circulate blood throughout the body. As previously stated, sleeping on one's left side reduces strain on the liver and promotes healthy cardiac function; this is particularly crucial in the third trimester.
Sleeping on one's back has been linked to an increased risk of late stillbirth in certain studies, therefore it's generally better to sleep on one's side during pregnancy.
Regular defecation
Seen on the left side of your body, the ileocecal valve (no worries, I've never heard of it either) links the big and small intestines. Reportedly, the small intestine moves waste more efficiently toward the big intestine when you sleep on your left side. The procedure is made easier by gravity, which helps with better bowel motions and waste disposal.
When should you think about changing your sleeping position?
Having said that, there's no hard and fast rule about sleeping on one's left side, and several sleeping positions are thought to have distinct advantages.
Making sure you're comfy all night long and ready to change positions if you discover one isn't working is the most crucial thing. For instance, if you already suffer from shoulder discomfort, sleeping on your side can make it worse since you'll be placing extra weight on that side all night long.
We trust that this post has imparted some useful information to you. Is there a certain way you like to lay down to sleep? In that case, please post it in the comments to help us start people discussing.
