How you sleep affects the quality of rest you get and your overall health. Typically, we don't choose how we sleep - some people sleep like a statue on their back, while others flip around like a rotisserie chicken. But you should know that not all sleeping positions are ideal, and you can change the position you sleep in.
Side sleeping is the most common position to
sleep in -- around 60% of adults sleep this way. Regarding overall benefits and
human anatomy, side sleeping takes the crown as the best sleeping position for
things like digestion and heartburn. If you're thinking about switching to side
sleeping, you may be wondering which side is best. It turns out that both sides
have their benefits and drawbacks. Here's what to know.
Benefits of sleeping on your side
Side sleeping is the natural position that
many people favor at night. It's associated with alleviating insomnia and sleep
deprivation. The benefits don't stop there, there are several other advantages
to sleeping on your side. They include but are not limited to:
Reduced back pain: Sleeping on your stomach
can increase the pressure on your spine. If you're a stomach sleeper, try
sleeping on your side with your legs straight to help reduce back pain. Side
sleeping can keep your spine straight and reduce pressure in the cervical and
lumbar section of the back.
Reduced snoring: When you sleep on your back,
your soft palate and tongue can fall backward and obscure your airway. This is
especially common for those with sleep apnea. Side sleeping can help prevent
your tongue from blocking your airway.
Happier gut: Left side sleeping can ease
gastrointestinal issues like heartburn, bloating and constipation.
Improved brain health: Our brain gets rid of
waste while we sleep. Studies show that sleeping on your side most effectively
clears the brain of metabolic waste.
Disadvantages of side sleeping
Sleeping on your side can do a lot of good for
your body, but it's not for everyone. Side sleeping can have disadvantages,
especially if you're sleeping on the wrong mattress. Buy best side sleeping pillows.
Shoulder pain and hip pain: If the mattress
you have is too firm for your body type, then side sleeping can increase
pressure on your shoulders, hips and knees. If it is too soft, you can sink in
too far and alter your natural spinal alignment.
Pressure on the face: For people who live with
glaucoma or sinus congestion can increase pressure in the eye area.
Comments
Post a Comment