You probably already know that getting enough sleep is an essential part of being healthy. But how you sleep is also important.
The three most common sleep positions are the stomach, back, and side. Which one is the best for health reasons? Yes, there’s a difference — and a mattress you’re supposed to use, depending on your slumber position. Side sleeping is the most popular position, but which side you sleep on matters. Short of finding the best mattress for side sleepers, is there a better side to try to adjust to? Let’s look at the facts here.
Understanding Sleep Positions
Children tend to sleep in all positions equally. By adulthood, sleep preferences often narrow to one position. According to studies, side sleeping is the most popular position in the US, followed by stomach and back sleeping. One reason for that could be that human bodies become less flexible over the years, making side sleeping the most comfortable position.
Thinking more about that, it makes sense that there are differences in preferred sleep positions between generations. In general, Generation X and Millennials are more likely to sleep on their stomach, while baby boomers prefer side sleeping.
Sleep position can affect how deep and long someone sleeps. And side sleeping may have more health benefits than other positions for many people.
Health Benefits Of Side Sleeping
Sleeping on your side can have various health benefits, with certain ones based on the side chosen:
- Digestive Health – Sleeping on your left side typically helps food move through your digestive system.
- Heart Health – Sleeping on your right side may reduce strain on your heart and improve breathing.
- Sleep Apnea and Snoring – Side sleeping helps keep your airway open, potentially reducing sleep apnea and snoring for better sleep quality. That applies to the left and right side.
- Acid Reflux – Left-side sleeping may prevent stomach acid from traveling up your esophagus, reducing heartburn symptoms.
- Pregnancy – Doctors may suggest certain expectant women sleep on their left side to improve blood flow to the baby.
Potential Downsides
There are a few drawbacks to sleeping on your side, such as:
- Shoulder and Hip Pain – Side sleeping puts a lot of pressure on your shoulders and hips. It can also worsen existing shoulder pain and pinch the rotator cuff tendon. To prevent shoulder and hip pain, consider using a firm mattress and putting a pillow between your knees to keep your hips aligned. Find more info on relieving nighttime hip pain here and see your doctor for any chronic pain.
- Facial Crinkling and Aging – The pressure of your face on the pillow can cause wrinkles and creases. It can also decrease collagen, creating a loss of volume in the face. Switching sides and using a silk pillowcase may help reduce or prevent that issue for some sleepers.
Is Sleeping On One Side of Your Body Healthier Than the Other?
Sleeping on your right or left side has different health benefits, as the list above shows. But is one side overall healthier than the other?
While both left- and right-side sleeping have potential advantages, they differ by individual as every body is different, and no results are guaranteed. Some people think the left side has slightly more positives regarding health benefits than the right. Sleeping on the left side, for example, may improve digestion and reduce snoring.
Final Thoughts on the Left or Right-Side Sleep Position
While some sleep experts and doctors recommend the left side for sleeping, choosing the side that provides you the best sleep quality and is comfortable is the most important. Don’t feel pressured to change if you’re a right-side sleeper getting a good rest night after night. Forcing yourself into an uncomfortable sleep position might do more harm than good.
The best sleep position is ultimately the one that gets you consistent, quality rest. Instead of changing your sleep patterns, consider investing in a mattress designed for your preferred slumber position.
What side do you sleep on, or are you a back or stomach sleeper? Have you thought about how the position you choose might be affecting your health? Feel free to comment!
Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels.