Why Sleeping on Your Left Side is Best

There are multiple benefits to sleeping on your LEFT side rather than your back or right side.

The immediate benefit is in digestion. In the above diagram you will see that the stomach sphincter, known as the pyloric sphincter, is actually located on the upper right side of the body. So, when you lie on your right side, gastric juices, which are highly caustic, tend to reach the pyloric sphincter. In time, this sphincter is damaged by these digestive juices, and you develop a problem commonly known as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD. It's a fancy way of saying, you develop really, really bad heartburn. And if left untreated it can develop reflux (or belching of the contents) into your upper esophagus and throat, all of which can cause serious health issues such as erosion of the soft tissue.

Now look at the figure lying on his LEFT side. You will note that by lying on his left side, the stomach content rolls over to the left side, but below the pyloric sphincter, thus eliminating GERD and further damage.

The same problems occur when sleeping on your back as when on your right side. Stomach contents can once again creep upward to the pyloric sphincter and cause GERD. However, if you absolutely must sleep on your back, you can slightly alleviate some of the problem by simply elevating the head of the bed (put bed risers under the head of the bed) and placing a pillow beneath your knees to prevent sliding downward.

You can clearly see that lying on your LEFT side is most beneficial for you. Good support is recommended: a good pillow for support of the head and neck, and one between the knees to properly align your spine.

Lying on your LEFT side also lowers blood pressure and allows your heart to beat slower and not as hard as when lying in other positions. Respirations are often easier as well.

If you have any questions regarding GERD or sleeping on your left side, we offer 24/7/365 consultation with one of our telemedicine doctors in our very affordable health care program.

At Health Alliance Network we provide telemedicine for you and your entire houselhold for one low monthly price of $34.99. No copays. No deductibles. We'd love to talk to you about our program! If you like, please contact me at cynthiahenry@consultant.com. Or we invite you to come take a look at our website where you can get a feel and understanding of just what we can do for you. And helping you is what we are all about! Click HERE to learn more.