If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t give much thought to how you sleep.
Imagine this: after a long, hectic day at work, juggling the kids, cooking dinner, getting the little ones to bed, and finally sneaking in a few moments to unwind with a TV show or a book — by the time you crawl into bed, all you want is to shut your eyes and drift off. The last thing on your mind is which side you’re lying on.
Of course, everyone’s daily grind looks different, but here’s the truth: I used to think the only thing that mattered was getting enough sleep — eight hours if I’m lucky — regardless of how I got it.
But here’s the kicker: your body is doing a whole lot more during those hours than you realize. And surprisingly, the side you choose to sleep on can make a big difference.
We all have our favorite sleeping positions — some curl up on their right side, others on their left, and some even sleep flat on their backs like a pharaoh. But science and health experts are shining a spotlight on one position in particular: sleeping on your left side.
Why? Because this simple switch could unlock a range of incredible health benefits. So, stick with me as we dive into why sleeping on your left side might just be the game-changer your nightly routine needs.
So, where does all this hype about sleeping on your left side come from? A variety of trusted online sources point to some compelling reasons—and while your ideal sleeping position ultimately depends on what feels most comfortable for you, the left side offers some surprisingly powerful benefits:
Nighttime Heartburn Relief
If you’re one of the many who struggle with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), sleeping on your left side might be a game changer. This position helps keep your stomach positioned below the esophagus, reducing the chances of stomach acid flowing back up — which means less of that dreaded burning sensation at night.
Boosting Spleen and Liver Function
Your spleen plays a vital role in filtering blood and supporting your immune system. Sleeping on your left side can improve blood flow to this important organ, helping it work more efficiently.
At the same time, your liver, which sits on the right side of your body, benefits too. By sleeping on your left, you’re giving your liver some extra support in detoxifying your body and processing substances more effectively.
Pregnancy Perks
For expectant mothers, the benefits are especially noteworthy. The Sleep Foundation recommends sleeping on the left side during pregnancy because it improves circulation, making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. This becomes crucial in the later stages of pregnancy, as it also helps ease pressure on the liver and supports overall heart function.
Plus, side sleeping is generally considered safer during pregnancy—studies have linked sleeping on the back to increased risks, including late stillbirth.
Supporting Healthy Digestion
Here’s a fun fact: the ileocecal valve (a name as mysterious as it sounds) connects your small and large intestines and is located on your left side. Sleeping on your left side uses gravity to encourage waste to move smoothly through your digestive tract, promoting healthier bowel movements and better waste elimination.
When to Think Twice About Switching Sides
That said, don’t feel pressured to force yourself onto your left side if it doesn’t feel right. Different sleeping positions come with their own perks, and comfort is key to a good night’s rest. For example, lying on one side for long stretches might aggravate shoulder or hip pain if you’re already dealing with aches.
The best advice? Listen to your body. If your current sleeping position works for you, keep at it. But if you’re curious about these benefits, why not give left-side sleeping a try and see how it feels?
We hope this sheds some light on your nightly habits! What’s your go-to sleeping position? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear from you.