Why People Should Avoid Sleeping on the Right Side?

Almost half of Americans do not get enough sleep. Lack of sleep causes numerous problems such as weight gain, depression, and high blood pressure. Anyway, the sleeping position is important as well.

Even people who sleep seven or eight hours per day may have health problems because of the way they sleep. Experts say that the position people like the most may be the reason why they have shoulder, stomach, and back pain.

So, a famous chiropractor says that if sleeping on the right side is your favorite position, then, you should change that. The chiropractor, Dr. Douillard recommends sleeping on the left side because it is very beneficial and will improve your health (1).

Other experts agree with Dr. Douillard and they think that the pose you sleep in is very important too. In this article, we offer you a list of reasons that will inform you why it is good to sleep on your left side instead of the right.

1. Digestion

Are you feeling bloated all the time? Or, maybe you have digestion problems? Well, there may be many reasons behind these problems. Since the pancreas and the stomach are on your left side, sleeping on that side will improve their function.

When you sleep on your left side, you help the process of the undigested toxins getting to the colon. Also, after you have eaten a large meal, a nap on the left side will help you gain more energy and will provide better digestion.

2. The Health of Your Heart

As you know, the heart is on the left side of the body, and it is clear why experts recommend sleeping on the left. When you sleep in this position, you let smoother blood flow toward your heart. You do not want to put stress on your heart, so make sure you rest (2).

3. Pregnancy

Pregnant women should spend a lot of time sleeping on the left side. In this way, they take the pressure off the back, and the blood can flow to the uterus and the fetus.

Since numerous pregnant women develop problems with their spine, sleeping on the left side can help them relieve pressure. Also, the nutrients can get to the placenta and will keep the baby healthy.

A pregnant woman should sleep on the left side with pillows kept between her bent knees (3).

4. Ease Snoring

Having a partner who snores is annoying because you cannot get enough sleep. Tell them that sleeping on the left side can be of help because the tongue and the throat are in a neutral position.

So, in this way, one can breathe properly. It is known that sleeping on the back makes snoring worse.

Improve Your Sleep

The four reasons above are good enough for you to sleep on your left side. Additionally, if you want to get enough sleep, you need to keep in sync with your sleep cycle. Also, you need to go to sleep at the same time each night.

In this way, you will set your internal clock. Choose a time that suits you the most. Getting enough sleep will help you wake up without an alarm in the morning. And, you should try avoiding sleeping in during the weekends.

Having a different sleeping schedule leads to feelings of fatigue, insomnia, etc.

No Lights

Melatonin is very important for a good night’s sleep. When it is dark, the brain produces more melatonin. Because of that, you need to sleep in complete darkness. Having lights in your bedroom may keep you alert.

If you cannot go without a TV, make sure to lower the brightness.

Food and Drinks

Food and drinks you consume during the day have a huge impact on your sleep. Caffeine causes problems even after ten to twelve hours of consumption. Try eating dinner earlier, especially if you eat spicy and acidic food because they cause heartburn.

Relax

Having too much on your mind leads to sleepless nights. No matter if you have anxiety or excessive stress, there are ways that can help you relax in order to get enough sleep. Find ways to manage your time and handle stress in a productive way.