How Your Sleeping Position Affects Your Health

You already know the importance of a good night of sleep. However, did you know that the position you sleep in could be affecting your health? See how your favoured sleep position could be affecting your health.

Sleeping on Your Back

Some studies have shown that sleeping on your back puts you at a higher risk for obstructive sleep apnea. However, this seems to be more related to those who have other risk factors for the disease, such as being overweight or having issues waking up rested. If you sleep on your back and wake up refreshed and without any symptoms, then chances are your sleeping position is perfect for you.

Sleeping on Your Side

Good news for those who love to sleep on your side; this position does not come with a lot of health issues. In fact, it can be a great position to avoid neck and back pain. If you do sleep on your side and experience regular neck or upper back pain, chances are you need to get a more supportive pillow or mattress. For those that suffer from regular heartburn, sleeping on your left side may help.

Sleeping on Your Stomach

Unfortunately, sleeping on your stomach is the worst position to sleep in. While some studies suggest that sleeping on your stomach can help with digestion and sleep apnea prevention, it can also cause a lot of issues with your spine. It can put added pressure on the lower back and cause the neck to be turned in an unnatural angle for too many hours. The problem is that you cannot sleep on your stomach with your head down (like how you would lie on a massage table), so turning the head to either side puts your spine at risk.

Sleeping with a Partner

If you share your bed with someone, it can affect your health for the good, as well as for worse. Those who slept with a snorer could have a harder time staying in a deep, restorative sleep. On the other side, those who shared a bed with someone and enjoyed cuddle time before snoozing were more likely to be happier and have a stronger relationship.

For the best quality of health, the number of hours you sleep is not the only thing that is important. It is also important to pay attention to your sleeping position. Side sleepers are at the biggest advantage for great sleep and better health, with stomach sleepers being at the biggest disadvantage.