Sleeping position plays a crucial role in digestion, circulation, and overall health. While many people choose their sleeping side based on comfort, the orientation of internal organs means that sleeping on the right side can have subtle but significant effects on the body — particularly on the digestive system and heart function.
How Body Position Affects Digestion
The stomach and esophagus are positioned in such a way that gravity influences the movement of gastric juices during sleep. When lying on the right side, the stomach sits higher than the esophagus. This allows acidic contents to flow upward more easily, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux or heartburn. Over time, this can irritate the lining of the esophagus and cause discomfort after meals or during the night.
Risks of Right-Side Sleeping
