LifestyleImprove your health by changing your sleeping position: Why it's better to sleep on your left side

Improve your health by changing your sleeping position: Why it's better to sleep on your left side

Sleep only on your left side. You will feel the difference immediately.
Sleep only on your left side. You will feel the difference immediately.
Images source: © Adobe Stock | Pawel Kacperek

6:37 AM EST, February 12, 2024

Have you ever felt energy drops during the day despite having the recommended eight hours of sleep? This could be because you're sleeping in the wrong position. Many of us don't realize that the side we sleep on plays a crucial role in the quality of our sleep. Recent studies suggest it's worth considering sleeping on your left side.

The benefits of sleeping on your left side

Lying on your left side enhances heart function. It reduces the effort required for our heart to pump blood. In contrast, when we sleep on our right side, the blood needs to be pumped upwards, which can disrupt its flow.

Apart from this, the upper part of our lymphatic system is situated on our left side. This system manages lymph flow - a tissue fluid that transports nutrients in our body. By sleeping on our left side, we can improve lymph circulation and nutrient transport.

The impacts of sleeping on your left side on your stomach and pancreas

We know well that the stomach and pancreas are located on our left side. Sleeping on our left side prevents the stomach from laying pressure on the pancreas, allowing it to function smoothly. This allows enzymes and gastric juices produced by the pancreas to flow without hindrance.

Furthermore, this position also improves regular bowel movements. This is particularly important for individuals who suffer from constipation. Better functioning of the small intestine, large intestine, and the ileocecal valve are additional benefits of sleeping on the left side.

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