How It Helps: The left side position is particularly helpful for people who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux.
Why It Works: When you sleep on your left side, the junction between the stomach and esophagus remains above the level of gastric acid, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux.
What You Can Expect: Fewer instances of heartburn and a more comfortable night’s sleep.
3. Enhances Circulation
How It Helps: Sleeping on your left side promotes better circulation, especially for pregnant women. It helps the heart pump blood more efficiently, as the left side of the body is where the vena cava (a large vein that returns deoxygenated blood to the heart) is located.
Why It Works: The left-side position helps reduce the pressure on the vena cava, allowing blood to flow more easily to the heart and improving circulation to the organs.
What You Can Expect: Enhanced blood circulation, improved oxygenation, and better overall organ function.
4. Relieves Back Pain
How It Helps: For those who suffer from back pain, sleeping on the left side can alleviate pressure on the spine and help distribute weight more evenly.
Why It Works: It also reduces strain on the lower back, especially when combined with placing a pillow between the knees for extra support.
What You Can Expect: Reduced back pain and a more comfortable sleep posture.
5. Supports Lymphatic Drainage
How It Helps: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body. Sleeping on the left side helps promote the proper flow of lymphatic fluid, which helps the body remove waste and toxins.
Why It Works: The majority of lymphatic fluid drains from the left side of the body, so sleeping on this side can help optimize this natural detox process.
What You Can Expect: Improved detoxification and a healthier immune system.
6. Improves Heart Health
How It Helps: Left-side sleeping can reduce pressure on the heart, allowing it to pump more efficiently. By improving circulation and reducing strain on the heart, this position can promote better cardiovascular health.
Why It Works: By improving blood flow to the heart and reducing the workload, you may help reduce the risk of heart disease and support heart health.
What You Can Expect: Better heart health and reduced strain on the cardiovascular system.
