When it comes to sleep, most people rarely think about their sleeping position. As long as you’re getting enough rest, does it really matter whether you’re curled up on your side, stretched out on your back, or lying face-down on your stomach? Surprisingly, the way you sleep can have a significant impact on your health. Different sleep positions can produce varying effects on your body—some positive and others less so.

While comfort should always be a priority, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different sleeping positions can be eye-opening. One position, in particular, stands out for its surprising health benefits: sleeping on your left side. From improving brain health to aiding digestion and supporting the glymphatic system, left-side sleeping offers a variety of advantages worth exploring.

One of the most notable benefits of sleeping on your left side is improved digestion. Since the stomach is naturally positioned on the left side of the body, gravity assists digestion when you lie this way. This can help alleviate bloating, constipation, and acid reflux. Those who suffer from frequent heartburn might find significant relief by adopting this sleeping posture.

Another key benefit of left-side sleeping is its impact on brain health. Many people don’t realize that the brain has its own waste-clearance system called the glymphatic system. Research suggests that sleeping on your side supports this system in removing toxins and metabolic waste more effectively. This process may lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, though further research is still needed to confirm these findings in humans.

Improved circulation is another significant advantage of sleeping on your left side. This is especially important for pregnant women, as it allows optimal blood flow to the placenta while reducing pressure on the liver. Even for those who aren’t pregnant, better circulation can contribute to overall health and reduced strain on the heart.

For people who snore or suffer from sleep apnea, side sleeping can offer noticeable improvements. Sleeping on your back often causes the tongue and soft palate to fall backward, partially blocking the airway and increasing snoring. Sleeping on your side helps keep the airway clear, promoting smoother, quieter breathing.

Left-side sleeping can also help reduce lower back pain. Unlike stomach sleeping, which can strain the spine, sleeping on your side maintains a more neutral spinal alignment. This reduces tension in the lower back and minimizes discomfort.

If side sleeping doesn’t come naturally to you, there are strategies to help train your body. Start by investing in a high-quality pillow and mattress. Your pillow should support your neck without tilting your head too far up or down. A slightly softer mattress can help reduce pressure on your shoulders and hips, making side sleeping more comfortable.

Extra pillows can also make a big difference. Place one between your knees to keep your spine aligned, and hug another pillow to support your upper arm. Body pillows are another great option for maintaining your side-sleeping posture throughout the night. If you tend to roll onto your back or stomach, sewing a tennis ball onto the back of your pajama shirt can be an effective deterrent.

However, left-side sleeping isn’t without its downsides. Some people might experience shoulder or hip pain, especially if their mattress is too firm. On the flip side, a mattress that’s too soft can cause spinal misalignment and lead to discomfort.

Facial pressure can also be an issue for some side sleepers. Individuals with sinus congestion or glaucoma may notice increased facial pressure, leading to discomfort or pain. Jaw clenching can also become more pronounced in this position.

Other sleeping positions have their own set of pros and cons. Back sleeping, for example, can alleviate hip and knee pain, reduce sinus congestion, and prevent facial wrinkles. However, it’s not ideal for people who snore or suffer from sleep apnea.

Stomach sleeping, while preferred by some, is generally discouraged. It places significant strain on the spine and can lead to persistent neck and back pain. If you can’t avoid this position, using a flat pillow or none at all can help reduce the strain on your neck.

At the end of the day, the best sleeping position is the one that leaves you feeling well-rested, pain-free, and refreshed. However, if you’re struggling with issues like back pain, snoring, digestive problems, or brain fog, giving left-side sleeping a try might be worth the effort.

With a few adjustments, such as selecting the right pillow, mattress, and sleep setup, you might unlock a whole range of health benefits. So why not give it a shot? Your body and mind might just thank you when you wake up feeling truly refreshed.