Snoring often becomes worse when someone sleeps on their back.

That's because gravity can allow the tongue and soft tissues of the upper airway to move backward, narrowing the airway.

Side sleeping can help keep the airway more open in some people.

This means that sleeping on either side—not necessarily the left side specifically—may reduce snoring for certain individuals.

If your partner complains that you sound like a chainsaw at night, changing position may be worth trying.

But persistent loud snoring can also be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, especially when accompanied by pauses in breathing, gasping, morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, or difficulty concentrating.

In that situation, changing positions alone isn't enough.

5. Side Sleeping Can Support the Airway

Your sleeping position affects the shape and stability of your upper airway.

For people who are prone to airway collapse during sleep, side sleeping can sometimes be more favorable than lying flat on the back.

This is one reason positional therapy is sometimes incorporated into sleep-apnea management.

However, sleep apnea is a medical condition that deserves proper evaluation.

If someone frequently stops breathing during sleep or wakes up choking or gasping, they should speak with a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on a different sleeping position.

6. Left-Side Sleeping May Feel Better for Digestion

You'll often hear that sleeping on the left side "improves digestion."

That statement is a little too broad.

Your digestive system continues functioning regardless of whether you sleep on your left or right side.

However, body position can influence reflux, which is closely related to digestion.

For someone who experiences heartburn after eating, lying on the left side may be more comfortable than lying on the right.

This is one of the better-supported reasons to consider left-side sleeping.

7. It May Reduce Nighttime Heartburn After a Late Meal

Eating close to bedtime can make nighttime reflux more likely, particularly after large or fatty meals.

If you can't avoid eating late, your sleeping position may make a difference.

Research has found that left-side positioning can reduce acid exposure in the esophagus for some people with reflux.

Still, position isn't the only factor.

Other strategies include:

• Avoiding large meals shortly before bed

• Limiting foods that trigger your reflux

• Maintaining a healthy weight if appropriate

• Raising the head of the bed when recommended

• Avoiding lying down immediately after eating

Combining several approaches may be more effective than relying on sleep position alone.

8. Your Pillow Matters More Than You Might Think

Simply turning onto your left side doesn't guarantee a comfortable or healthy sleeping position.

Your head and neck need adequate support.

If your pillow is too low, your neck may bend downward.