Sleeping on the Left Side: How It Benefits Your Brain, Stomach, and Glymphatic Health

Alarming statistics reveal that sleep disorders and neurodegenerative diseases have become increasingly prevalent in our society, affecting millions of people worldwide.[1,2] This emphasizes the importance of understanding how sleep quality can impact our health and potentially contribute to these conditions, as well as underscores what getting less than 7 hours of sleep a night can do to you. 

But did you know that your sleeping position can also have an impact on your health? While we understand the importance of sleep for our overall well-being, the position in which we sleep can also play a crucial role. In fact, scientific studies suggest that sleeping on your left side offers a range of benefits for your brain, stomach, and glymphatic health. 

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the science behind sleeping on the left side, explore its specific benefits, and uncover the best practices to optimize your sleep position. 

The Glymphatic System and Sleeping on the Left Side

To grasp the benefits of sleeping on the left side, it is essential to understand the glymphatic system first. 

The glymphatic system is a network of vessels in the brain that plays a vital role in removing waste and toxins from the brain. It operates most actively during sleep, and research has shown that it is crucial for maintaining brain health. This system is even more essential when considering that your gut health could also be why you can’t sleep. 

Scientific studies have revealed that sleeping on your left side can enhance the function of the glymphatic system, facilitating more efficient removal of waste and toxins from the brain. In a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, researchers found that sleeping on the side in general increased cerebrospinal fluid transport through the glymphatic system, leading to improved brain health.[3]

Furthermore, it suggests that sleeping on the left side can also reduce the risk of developing neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. A shift in your sleep might be an early marker of such conditions, emphasizing the potential neuroprotective effects of this sleep position. 

If you’re having difficulty sleeping, have you considered that working out might help? 

Benefits of Sleeping on the Left Side for Stomach Health

In addition to its impact on brain health, sleeping on the left side can also benefit your stomach. This position allows the stomach to rest below the esophagus, which can help prevent acid reflux and heartburn. This is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition characterized by frequent acid reflux. [4]

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology investigated the effect of sleep position on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The researchers found that sleeping on the left side significantly reduced the occurrence of acid reflux episodes compared to other positions, providing empirical evidence for the benefits of this sleep posture. [4]

Moreover, sleeping on the left side promotes healthy digestion. By positioning the body this way, food can move more easily from the small intestine to the large intestine, aiding in regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. 

Best Practices for Sleeping on Your Left Side

To optimize the benefits of sleeping on your left side, it is essential to follow these best practices:

1. Use a supportive pillow: Select a pillow that provides adequate support to ensure proper alignment of your head, neck, and spine.

2. Keep your legs slightly bent: To prevent lower back pain and promote better circulation, maintain a slight bend in your legs while sleeping on your left side.

3. Avoid sleeping on your stomach: Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and spine, leading to discomfort and potential alignment issues. Avoiding this position to optimize the benefits of left-side sleeping is advisable.

4. Experiment with different positions: While sleeping on the left side offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to find the sleeping position that works best for you and your body. Some individuals may find variations, such as a slight tilt or additional pillows, more comfortable and equally beneficial.

5. Transition gradually: If you are accustomed to sleeping on your back or right side, transitioning to sleeping on your left side may take time. Gradually introduce this position by using pillows to support your body and prevent rolling onto your back or right side. Loose-fitting clothing can also aid in the transition and minimize discomfort.

My Personal RX for Better Sleep

As a doctor, my advice to patients goes beyond recommending the ideal sleeping positions; it extends to cultivating healthy sleep habits and creating a conducive sleep environment. Follow my personal prescription for better overall sleep:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to promote healthy sleep patterns. Download my free sleep guide for practical tips and strategies to create a restful sleep environment, establish healthy sleep habits, and unlock the benefits of rejuvenating rest.

• Avoid consuming heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol close to bedtime. Instead, opt for a light and balanced meal earlier in the evening and consider replacing caffeinated drinks with herbal teas or decaffeinated options. 

• Take my Sleep Max supplements daily. This carefully formulated blend of natural ingredients is scientifically designed to encourage relaxation and improve sleep patterns.  

• Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing before sleep to promote better sleep quality.

• Monitor your sleep posture and adjust as needed to ensure optimal comfort and alignment.

• Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent sleep issues, such as insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Remember, a good night’s sleep is not just about the hours spent in bed; it’s about the restoration and rejuvenation that quality sleep provides. Prioritizing sleep and making positive changes to enhance sleep quality can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

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References:

1. Suni, E., & Suni, E. (2023). Sleep statistics. Sleep Foundation. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/sleep-facts-statistics 
2. Neurodegenerative Diseases. (n.d.). NIEHS. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/health/neurodegenerative/index.cfm 
3. Lee, H., Xie, L., Yu, M. Y., Kang, H., Zhang, X., Deane, R., Logan, J. A., Nedergaard, M., & Benveniste, H. (2015). The effect of body posture on brain glymphatic transport. The Journal of Neuroscience, 35(31), 11034–11044. https://doi.org/10.1523/jneurosci.1625-15.2015 
4. Katz, L., Just, R., & Castell, D. O. (1994). Body position affects recumbent postprandial reflux. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 18(4), 280–283. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004836-199406000-00004