Regardless of whether you typically sleep on your left side, back, or stomach, it might be time to reconsider your sleeping position. Sleeping on your left side can potentially enhance your overall health, in addition to being more comfortable. Herbalist Ali Ramadan, known as @holisticali, highlighted some benefits of left-side sleeping in a TikTok video that received 406.9k likes. In just fifteen seconds, Ramadan provided compelling reasons to switch to this position, prompting comments like “Dramatically switched to the left side after seeing this vid,” and “I tried it, it’s true it makes a difference.” Ramadan explains that sleeping on the left side can help with heartburn and stomach issues, as well as promote a more peaceful night’s sleep. He states, “When we sleep on the left side, the stomach and its gastric juices remain lower than the esophagus, thus reducing heartburn and digestive upsets.” Additionally, this position can alleviate back pain by avoiding excessive pressure on the back. Even if you have a fixed preference for a particular sleeping position, it’s worth considering the benefits of switching to your left side. To delve deeper, experts were consulted.

So Which Side Comes Out on Top?

Jeff Kahn, co-founder of Rise Science and a specialist in sleep medicine, spoke to Sleepopolis about the advantages of left-side sleeping. Kahn explains that while there is no universally right or wrong way to sleep, those who are pregnant or have specific medical conditions may find left-side sleeping more comfortable.

“For instance, it might be advantageous for pregnant women because it can improve circulation to the heart, benefiting both mom and baby,” Kahn said. Left-side sleeping can also help those experiencing nausea and gastrointestinal issues.

“It’s also thought to help with digestion and reduce heartburn, which can be beneficial for those with gastrointestinal issues,” Kahn added. He further explained that lying on your left side can aid in easier food passage through your intestinal tract due to the layout of the digestive system. “When you’re on your left, gravity can help move food along from your small intestine to your large intestine. Your stomach is lower than your esophagus, making it harder for stomach acid to rise up into it, causing acid reflux.”

Martin Seeley, creator and CEO of Mattress Next Day, discussed the cardiovascular benefits of left-side sleeping. “Sleeping on the left side can increase circulation and is often recommended for those with heart disease or high blood pressure. This position allows for better oxygenation of the body, which may help improve cardiovascular health,” Seeley said. Conversely, sleeping on the right side can reduce circulation to certain areas of the body, such as the legs and feet.

While sleeping on the left side seems preferable, Kahn noted that there isn’t a substantial amount of data supporting this claim. Ultimately, it’s crucial to choose the sleeping position that ensures a restful night’s sleep and suits your body type.

“The best sleeping position for you is the one that you find most comfortable and that allows you to get enough healthy, naturalistic sleep,” Kahn said.

If you value your sleep, it might be best to stick with the position you are accustomed to. The last thing you want is to wake up on the wrong side of the bed.