How does sleeping position affect the digestive system?

We all know that healthy and quality sleep directly affects the quality of our lives. Getting enough sleep is intimately linked to many areas of our lives, from increasing our energy for the next day, to resting our body and mind, being able to focus more easily, and boosting our productivity. Moreover, it is not limited to this; The connection between sleep and digestion has also been proven by many studies. While quality sleep improves the functioning of the digestive system, insufficient sleep can lead to improper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. On the other hand, it is not enough just to get enough sleep to support digestion. The position in which we sleep also affects the functioning of the digestive system..

Important note: All information and recommendations in this article are based on scientifically sound articles prepared for general informational purposes and do not contain expert advice. The content of the page does not include elements containing information about therapeutic medical care. See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

On which side is it better to lie in a dream?

You may already know that lying down after a heavy meal or eating before bed negatively affects digestion and sleep quality. What if we told you that the position you sleep in directly affects your digestive system! Yes, according to gastroenterologists your sleeping position can improve or worsen your digestion. In addition, the way you hold your head while you sleep, as well as which side you sleep on, can change the quality of your sleep.

D., gastroenterologist at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, author of The Microbiome Connection and co-founder of The Good LFE. Ali Rezaye notes that numerous studies have examined the effect of sleeping position on the digestive system. “Scientific studies show that sleeping in a right-facing position increases the number of acid reflux attacks and heartburn compared to sleeping in a left-facing position.– said Dr. Rezaye says this is because when sleeping on the right side, the stomach is above the distal esophagus. On the other hand, a famous doctor who said that the position of the head during sleep also affects the digestive system, that raising the head can reduce reflux attacks. attracts attention.

On the other side, health line Experts also emphasize that sleeping on the left side has a positive effect on digestion. Although our body looks symmetrical, experts have noted an asymmetrical arrangement in terms of the distribution of our internal organs. It is useful to lie on the left side to regulate intestinal motility. they share. According to experts, sleeping on the left side at night creates an effect that facilitates emptying, especially in the morning, and allows you to relax both the stomach and intestines. Thus, the digestive system is supported during sleep.

Does sleeping on the left side always support digestion?

Considering the relationship between digestion and sleep position based on scientific research and experience, Dr. Sleeping on your left side reduces the number of reflux attacks, Rezaye says, but not everyone benefits. “If you do not suffer from reflux, there is no point in forcing yourself to sleep on your left side.” speaking different works, Lying on the right side to empty the stomach also has a relaxing effect. states.

In addition to all this, he recommends that people with reflux problems sleep on their left side and raise the head of the bed a few inches. However, in making this proposal, he also states: “Before you stack extra pillows, you need to know that just lifting your head won’t work, because with this strategy, the chest does not rise.” On the contrary, he emphasizes that using a specially designed wedge pad instead of this strategy will give more accurate results because it will put excessive pressure on the spine.

Dr. Sleep left to support the digestive system in the improvement of reflux from shares Rezaye did and Raising the head along with the chest area gives positive results. otherwise Lying to the right also helps the stomach empty more easily. conclusions can be drawn. Well, if you are wondering if there is a sleeping position that is bad for digestion in any health condition, the answer is; Yeah.

Is there a specific sleeping position that is bad for digestion?

Dr. Rezaye, although understudied, some studies Sleeping on your stomach is not the ideal position for digestion. attracts attention. Because this way of lying down can cause excessive pressure on the stomach, causing discomfort and worsening the quality of sleep. To explain this situation, the famous doctor gives the example of the need to unbutton jeans after eating. He says how unpleasant physical contractions can be in terms of digestion can be understood from this example. Claiming that adequate sleep is just as effective for digestion as sleeping position, Dr. Rezaye, “If you want to improve your digestive system, the first thing you need to do is get enough sleep.” He speaks.

Finally Medical news todayAccording to , although the relationship between the digestive system and sleep is complex, the following should be considered before going to bed:

• Don’t eat heavy meals before bed
• stop eating at least 3 hours before bed
• no coffee in the evening
• drink plenty of water throughout the day
• get enough sleep

Important note: All information and recommendations in this article are based on scientifically sound articles prepared for general informational purposes and do not contain expert advice. The content of the page does not include elements containing information about therapeutic medical care. See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

If you wish, you can also check out our various content to help you improve your sleep quality:

Circadian Rhythm and Sleep Relationships: Listen to Your Body Clock for Quality and Healthy Sleep
The Magic Key to Better Sleep: The 6/30 Rule
Quality sleep, quality life: 6 tips for sound sleep

Source: Healthline, wellandgood, medicalnewstoday