How Your Sleeping Position Could Be Impacting Your Health
Have you ever thought about the best sleeping position and how it affects your body and health? Learn the answer in this article.
There are different sleeping positions, some of which may be beneficial for your body and health, while others may be associated with problems and body pain. So, what is the best sleeping position?
Best Sleeping Position
When you’re younger, the sleeping position doesn’t affect you much, but as you get older, your sleeping position can help reduce the pain you feel, or it can negatively affect it. Here are the best sleeping positions based on your condition:
- Fetal Position This is the most common sleeping position, especially among women. In general, this sleeping position is healthy due to the following benefits:
- It allows your spine to rest in its natural position.
- Studies have shown that it may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- This position is ideal for pregnant women, as they should sleep on their left side to improve blood flow to the fetus and reduce pressure on the liver.
- It’s recommended to stretch your body and move a little, as this position can put pressure on the lungs and diaphragm.
- Side Sleeping Position Sleeping on your side while keeping your back straight is considered a healthy position, and it offers the following benefits:
- It reduces the risk of sleep apnea.
- It alleviates neck and back pain.
- To improve this position, it is advised to place a soft pillow between your legs to reduce pressure on the hip area.
- Freefall Position As the name suggests, this position means sleeping on your stomach with your hands under your pillow or beside your head. Unfortunately, this position is not healthy and can cause pain in the back and neck. To reduce neck pain if you prefer sleeping in this position and make it healthier, it is recommended to use a soft pillow that does not elevate your neck too much.
Additionally, placing a thin pillow under your forehead while keeping your head facing down instead of sideways is advised to keep your airway open.
- Soldier Position This position involves sleeping on your back with your arms close to your sides. Unfortunately, this position may lead to snoring and can cause issues with the carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain and head. The only benefit of this position is that it may help prevent acid reflux.
If you prefer this position and want to make it a better sleeping position, it’s recommended to place a small pillow under your knees to support your spine and reduce the risk of back pain.
Important Factors That Affect Sleeping Position
Before choosing the best sleeping position for you, it is important to consider some factors that influence the choice of sleeping position:
- Back and Neck Pain: Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees can help reduce pain, or you can sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs.
- Snoring and Sleep Apnea: If you suffer from these issues, try sleeping on your side or on your stomach.
- Heartburn and Acid Reflux: If you suffer from heartburn, sleep on your left side and avoid the right side.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best sleeping position that suits your health and comfort.
