Why shouldn't you sleep on your right side?

The Right Side, the Wrong Side: Why Sleeping Position Matters for Digestion

We spend roughly a third of our lives asleep, a period our bodies dedicate to crucial restorative processes. While many factors contribute to a good night’s rest, something as seemingly insignificant as sleeping position can have a significant impact on our well-being, particularly for digestive health. Specifically, sleeping on your right side can exacerbate common issues like acid reflux and heartburn, a fact often overlooked in the pursuit of comfortable slumber.

The reason lies in the simple mechanics of our digestive system. Our stomach sits on the left side of the abdomen. When we sleep on our right side, gravity works against us, essentially pushing stomach acid upwards towards the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This sphincter, a muscular valve at the bottom of the esophagus, acts as a gatekeeper, preventing stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. However, when pressure from the stomach contents is increased by lying on the right side, the LES can be compromised, leading to acid reflux and the uncomfortable burning sensation of heartburn.

This effect is especially pronounced for individuals already suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition where the LES malfunctions frequently, allowing stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. Sleeping on the right side only intensifies this problem, leading to more frequent and severe episodes of heartburn and potentially long-term esophageal damage.

Pregnancy further complicates the situation. The growing uterus puts increased pressure on the stomach, making acid reflux a common complaint during pregnancy. Sleeping on the right side, combined with this existing pressure, can significantly worsen heartburn and discomfort, disrupting sleep and impacting overall well-being.

The solution? A simple shift to your left side. Sleeping on your left side allows gravity to work with your digestive system, keeping stomach acid where it belongs. This reduces the pressure on the LES, minimizing the risk of acid reflux and promoting better digestion. This change can provide significant relief to those suffering from nighttime heartburn and improve the quality of their sleep.

While sleeping on your left side is generally recommended for mitigating acid reflux, it’s crucial to note that individual experiences vary. Experimentation with different sleeping positions and pillows may be necessary to find what works best. If you consistently experience acid reflux or heartburn despite changing your sleeping position, consulting a doctor or gastroenterologist is essential for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Simple adjustments to your sleep habits, however, can be a significant first step towards a more comfortable and restful night’s sleep.