As a side sleeper, especially left side, I recently experienced some discomfort when forced to sleep on my right side due to an injury. After seeing a viral TikTok post from herbal practitioner Ali Ramadan suggesting that left-side sleeping is better for gastric health, I started to wonder if my change in sleep position might be the cause of my discomfort. It turns out, there is some scientific backing to Ramadan’s claim.
Gastroenterologist Ali Rezaie, MD, confirms that sleeping on your left side can be beneficial for gastrointestinal health, particularly for those dealing with acid reflux. However, research also suggests that left-side sleeping may not be ideal for cardiovascular health, especially for those with heart conditions. This mixed evidence raises the question: which side is best for optimal health?
The answer mostly depends on your specific health concerns. If you have no specific issues, either side may be fine, but for those with gastrointestinal or cardiovascular concerns, choosing the right side becomes more relevant. Left-side sleeping has been linked to reduced episodes of acid reflux, while right-side sleeping may be more comfortable for those with heart failure.
Ultimately, side sleeping has its advantages over back or stomach sleeping, including reduced snoring, improved digestion, and better support for various aches and pains. However, overall sleep quality is more critical for general health than any specific sleep position. “Poor sleep has been identified as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and contributes to stress, inflammation, and depression,” says Dr. Snow.
