Have you ever heard the tip of sleeping on your left side to assist with digestion? It's an old health tip that has been around for centuries, usually being presented as a quick and easy solution to battling heartburn, bloating, and other belly aches. But does it actually have any science to back it up, or is it simply an old wives' tale?
We exclusively spoke to our expert, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant, General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, to take a look at the evidence and what the he has to say about separating fact from fiction.
Can Sleeping on Your Left Side Improve Digestion?
“The theory about left-side sleeping is based on the natural anatomy of our gastrointestinal tract. The stomach lies to the left in the abdominal region, and when one sleeps on their left side, gravity is believed to facilitate the flow of food waste from the stomach into the small intestine, and then on into the large intestine,” Dt Tyagi highlighted. Experts also hypothesise that this position can keep the stomach acid from running back up into the esophagus, which might treat acid reflux and heartburn symptoms. Also, sleeping on one's left side could potentially enhance blood flow to the gastrointestinal organs.
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What the Science Reveal Says
Although the argument based on anatomy makes sense, vigorous scientific studies directly confirming a substantial and universal positive effect of sleeping on the left on digestion are not abundant. There have been some smaller studies suggesting a possible association between left lateral recumbency and fewer acid reflux symptoms at night. This may be useful in individuals with nocturnal heartburn. In addition, pregnancy lying on the left side is commonly advised to increase blood circulation to the uterus, kidneys, and fetus, and this indirectly may help digestive ease for pregnant women.
Additionally, however, there is no solid basis for believing that sleeping on your left significantly accelerates total digestion in the healthy individual. The body has a very efficient digestive system with its own methods of propelling food through the gastrointestinal tract, independent of position. Diet, hydration, and underlying medical conditions are much more likely to have a greater effect on digestive health.
Dr Tyagi Weighs In
"Although sleeping on the left side may provide some relief for people with acid reflux, it's no panacea for every digestive ailment. A focus on a healthy diet, proper hydration, and refraining from late-evening heavy meals are likely to be more effective measures for ensuring good digestion. Sleeping position is probably a secondary consideration," Dr Tyagi explained.
Bottomline: Is It Worth a Try?
The best sleeping position is one in which you can have a good and restful night's sleep. If sleeping on your left side helps you, then there probably won't be any harm in doing so. But don't use it as a sole solution to recurring digestive issues.
Key Takeaways:
- Sleeping on the left side could help reduce acid reflux symptoms because of the way the stomach and esophagus are positioned.
- It may indirectly support pregnant women's digestion by enhancing blood flow.
- There is not much strong scientific evidence to affirm that it seriously enhances digestion overall in anyone.
- Diet, hydration, and good eating habits continue to be essential for proper digestive health.
Note to always consult a healthcare professional to resolve any underlying issues and get personalised guidance.