Quality sleep is essential for our overall health and wellness. Not only does it involve adequate duration of sleep, but it also takes into account when you sleep and how refreshed or energised you feel when you wake up.
It is important to understand that our sleep and gut health are closely related. In fact, adequate sleep promotes the growth of good bacteria, aids digestion, and also facilitates nutrient absorption.
Another thing you might want to consider is your sleeping position, which, according to Dr Joydeep Ghosh, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, plays a major role in influencing gut health. While we all have our favourite sleep positions, there may be some that are positively or negatively affecting your digestion. Let’s delve deeper into the details.
Also Read: How Maintaining A Sleep Schedule Boosts Your Heart Health: Ways To Create One
The Link Between Sleeping Positions And Gut Health
Sleeping positions can affect digestion, as during our sleep, the digestive system is the most at work, says Dr Ghosh.
As good-quality sleep is important for gut health, the position of sleeping is equally essential, he adds.
Most people believe that sleeping on the left side is the best position for good digestion.
According to Dr Ghosh, sleeping on the left side reduces the risk of heartburn as it helps separate food and acid from the esophageal sphincter, which prevents the acid from flowing back up into the oesophagus. In general, heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus. Several factors, including obesity, alcohol, smoking, citrus fruits, vinegar, caffeine, and carbonated soft drinks, can contribute to the condition.
Some of the common symptoms include:
- A burning sensation or pain in the chest that usually occurs after eating or at night.
- Pain that worsens when lying down or bending over.
- A bitter or acidic taste in the mouth.
If the problem still persists, Dr Ghosh recommends elevating the head a little more with the help of a pillow.
Sleeping On The Right Side May Not Be So Good
When it comes to choosing sleeping positions, it is advised to avoid the right side. Dr Ghosh suggests it can increase the risk of heartburn and indigestion and may even cause discomfort throughout the night.
In fact, a 1994 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology found that lying on the right side led to more reflux and took longer for the stomach acid to clear compared to lying on the left side.
Another position that could be avoided is sleeping on the back. According to Medical News Today, one of the major issues associated with this sleep position is that it allows acid to travel back up the throat, aggravating acid reflux.
Conclusion
Just as sleep affects digestion, sleeping positions may also influence your gut health. Sleeping on the left side is the most recommended position because it helps aid digestion and also prevents conditions like heartburn and indigestion. Additionally, a good sleep position may also prove beneficial for those with sinus issues or snoring problems. This is especially important as we age and experience more sleep disturbances. You can also make a few minor tweaks to your sleep position, like using extra pillows, which could enhance your sleep quality and turn a night of tossing and turning into a restful sleep.