Though many just want to get enough rest, how you sleep can affect your health in surprising ways. Sleeping on your left side is known to reduce heartburn by keeping stomach acid where it belongs, away from the esophagus. This small change can mean more restful nights for acid reflux sufferers.
The spleen, located on the left, works better with good blood flow, so resting on that side supports your immune system. Similarly, the liver benefits from left-side sleeping by detoxifying the body more effectively. For pregnant women, this position improves circulation and lowers pressure during the final months of pregnancy.
Sleeping on your left side may also aid digestion since the ileocecal valve between small and large intestines is positioned there, helping waste pass smoothly. Always prioritize comfort, though; if left-side sleeping causes discomfort, switching positions is perfectly fine.
