For many of us, the position we sleep in is something we rarely think about. After a long day of work, cooking, playing with the kids, and maybe squeezing in a little relaxation, collapsing into bed often feels like the ultimate goal. As long as we manage to get a decent amount of sleep before the chaos of the next day begins, does it really matter how we sleep?

Actually, it does. While most people focus on the quantity of sleep they’re getting, research shows that the position you sleep in can have significant effects on your health. Among the options—right side, back, stomach, or left side—sleeping on your left side has been found to offer several remarkable benefits. Let’s dive into why this seemingly minor detail might be worth considering.

Benefits of Sleeping on Your Left Side

1. Relief from Nighttime Heartburn

If you struggle with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), sleeping on your left side could bring some much-needed relief. This position keeps your stomach below your esophagus, making it less likely for stomach acid to flow upward and cause that uncomfortable burning sensation. For people prone to heartburn, this small adjustment can make a world of difference in getting a restful night’s sleep.

2. Improved Spleen and Liver Function

Your spleen, an organ responsible for filtering impurities and supporting your immune system, benefits from left-side sleeping. This position promotes better blood flow to the spleen, enhancing its efficiency. Additionally, sleeping on your left side reduces pressure on your liver, which is situated on the right side of your body. This positioning can help with detoxification and overall liver function, giving your body a better chance to process toxins effectively.

3. Better Sleep for Pregnant Women

For pregnant women, especially during the later stages of pregnancy, sleeping on the left side is highly recommended. According to the Sleep Foundation, this position improves blood flow to the heart and reduces pressure on the liver, which can provide relief and support for both mother and baby. It also reduces the risk of complications associated with sleeping on the back, such as increased pressure on major blood vessels.

4. Healthier Bowel Movements

Ever heard of the ileocecal valve? It’s the point where your small and large intestines meet, and it’s located on the left side of your body. Sleeping on your left side allows gravity to help waste move more easily from the small intestine into the large intestine. This natural boost to your digestive system can improve bowel movements and make waste elimination more efficient.

When to Consider a Change in Sleeping Position

While sleeping on your left side offers numerous benefits, it’s not the only position worth considering. The most important factor is comfort. If you experience shoulder pain or discomfort from lying in one position too long, you may need to switch things up. Some people find relief from back pain by sleeping on their right side or on their back.

Side sleeping isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and your preferred position may depend on your body’s needs and any health conditions you may have. For example, those with sleep apnea may benefit from sleeping on their side rather than their back, but the exact side may not be as critical.

The Bigger Picture

The way you sleep might seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of health, but as this article highlights, it can have a significant impact. Adjusting your sleeping position, even slightly, can provide relief from common ailments, promote better organ function, and improve overall well-being.

What’s Your Go-To Sleeping Position?

Do you have a favorite sleeping position? Are you a back sleeper, a stomach sleeper, or do you naturally gravitate to one side? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Who knows? You might inspire someone to make a change that improves their quality of sleep—and health.

Sleeping is more than just a nightly routine; it’s an opportunity for your body to reset and heal. So why not make the most of it? Give left-side sleeping a try and see if you notice the benefits for yourself. After all, even small adjustments can lead to big improvements in how you feel.