Quick Summary:
- For people with digestive problems, lying on one’s left side promotes better digestion and lessens acid reflux.
- Individuals with heart issues can benefit from sleeping on their right side, which promotes heart health.
- To reduce discomfort, switch sides frequently. To minimize shoulder pain, utilize the right support.
- If you have shoulder pain or injuries, you might not want to sleep on your side. Try finding a more comfortable position instead.
Sleep is necessary for our well-being, but did you know that the position you sleep in has a big impact on your health?
Most people prefer sleeping on their side, it’s one of the most popular positions.
Each side has benefits of its own. For example, the left side is known to improve digestion and reduce acid reflux, making it great for people with digestive problems. Meanwhile, the right side is frequently chosen for heart health and circulation.
This article examines the benefits and drawbacks of both options, allowing you to make an informed decision for a better night’s sleep based on scientific findings and expert advice.
Benefits and drawbacks of left and right side sleeping
Which side is better for sleep? Well, the answer depends on your needs. So here is a breakdown of the drawbacks and benefits of each side.
Benefits of sleeping on your left side
- Improves digestion: The stomach’s natural balance allows food to pass through the digestive tract more smoothly.
- Reduces acid reflux: Prevents stomach acid from leaking back into the esophagus, which relieves heartburn symptoms.
- Better for pregnancy: Increases fetal blood flow while reducing pressure on the mother’s organs.
- Supports lymphatic drainage: Improves the drainage of toxins and waste from the lymphatic system.

Drawbacks of sleeping on your left side
- Pressure on organs: Individuals may experience discomfort due to pressure on their hearts, lungs, and stomachs.
- Shoulder pain: Consistently sleeping on one side might cause left-sided shoulder pain or stiffness.
- May aggravate heart issues: This position may be uncomfortable for certain people with heart diseases.
Benefits of sleeping on your right side
- Better for heart health: Lowers pressure on the heart and may enhance blood circulation.
- Comfort for certain heart disorders: It may be more comfortable for people suffering from heart failure or other cardiac disorders.

Drawbacks of sleeping on your right side
- Increased acid reflux: Some people may experience worsening acid reflux symptoms.
- Spine alignment: Poor posture on the right side can strain the spine, leading to discomfort or pain over time.
Which side is better to sleep on?
Most people think the left side is more beneficial because of its effects on digestion; nevertheless, the right side is also beneficial for heart health and blood circulation.
Feel free to start on one side and move back and forth, shifting from side to side or even onto your back while you sleep is also normal.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach if at all possible, as it is the most harmful to your spine and internal organs.
Can side sleeping lead to shoulder pain?
Indeed, side sleeping may exacerbate shoulder pain, particularly if the pillow or mattress doesn’t provide adequate support.
Lying on your side puts pressure on the shoulder, which may compress nerves and impede blood flow, causing pain and discomfort.
This strain can eventually make ailments like rotator cuff issues or shoulder injuries worse.
Purchasing a supportive mattress and adjusting the height of your pillow may reduce pressure points and lower your risk of shoulder pain.

Best Practices for Side Sleepers
- Consider alignment and assistance first to prevent pain and long-term problems, and make sure your body is properly supported as you sleep.
- Use a medium-firm mattress to support your body’s natural curve, preventing excessive sinking and maintaining spinal alignment.
- Choosing a firm pillow lowers the chance of neck discomfort and stiffness by keeping your neck in line with your spine.
- To balance your hips and relieve strain on your lower back, put a pillow between your knees to avoid discomfort.
- To reduce muscular imbalances and circulation problems, switch sides regularly.
- To relax muscles, increase comfort, and boost the quality of your sleep, stretch before bed.
When may side sleeping not be Ideal for you?
Side sleeping may not be suitable for people who have shoulder injuries, persistent pain, or certain heart diseases.
Shoulder disorders, such as rotator cuff injuries, can be worsened by the constant pressure of lying on one side.
It is also not recommended to sleep on the same side daily; instead, rotating between sides regularly or even sleeping on your back if you have shoulder pain might be beneficial for you.
Conclusion
Choosing the proper sleeping position is essential for excellent health and overall well-being.
Side sleeping, particularly on the left, can bring various benefits, including improved digestion and circulation, less acid reflux, and support for heart function.
Stretching and alternating sides before bedtime might help to prevent muscle imbalances.
While side sleeping is generally good, it may not be suitable for everyone, therefore prioritizing comfort and support is essential for the optimal sleep experience.