If you’re like me, you might not put much thought into the position you sleep in at night. After a long day—work, wrangling the kids, cooking dinner, tidying up, and maybe squeezing in some relaxation—you’re probably just happy to crawl into bed and pass out. As long as you get some shut-eye before tomorrow’s chaos begins, does the position really matter?

Apparently, it does. While most of us stick to a preferred sleeping style—whether it’s on our back, right side, left side, or even sprawled out like a starfish—the side you sleep on can significantly impact your health. And surprisingly, sleeping on your left side has some unique benefits worth considering.

Here’s why it might be worth making the switch:

1. Eases Heartburn
If you deal with acid reflux or GERD, sleeping on your left side can provide relief. This position keeps your stomach below your esophagus, reducing the risk of acid rising and causing that uncomfortable burning sensation.

2. Supports Spleen and Liver Function
Your spleen, located on the left side of your body, benefits from improved blood flow when you sleep on your left. This helps the organ function more efficiently, filtering impurities and boosting your immune system.
Additionally, your liver (on the right side) detoxifies more effectively in this position, as gravity aids its processes.

3. Better Sleep for Pregnant Women
Experts, including the Sleep Foundation, recommend left-side sleeping for pregnant women, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. This position improves circulation, alleviates liver pressure, and helps the heart pump blood more efficiently. It’s also linked to reducing risks associated with back-sleeping during pregnancy, such as late-term stillbirth.

4. Promotes Healthy Digestion
The ileocecal valve, connecting your small and large intestines, is on the left side of your body. Sleeping on your left side allows gravity to assist in waste movement, improving digestion and easing bowel movements.

5. When to Consider a Change
While left-side sleeping has many advantages, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your comfort should always come first. For instance, side-sleeping may cause discomfort in your shoulders if you stay in the same position for hours. In such cases, alternating positions or investing in supportive pillows can help.

Ultimately, the best sleeping position is one that allows you to rest comfortably and wake up feeling refreshed. That said, experimenting with left-side sleeping could be worth a try if you want to explore these health benefits.

Do you have a favorite sleeping position? Let’s start a conversation—share your thoughts in the comments! And if you found this article helpful, don’t forget to pass it along to someone who might benefit from it too.