Chapter 1: The Connection Between Sleep and Digestion
Sleep is a time when the body repairs itself, regulates hormones, and processes the events of the day. At the same time, the digestive system continues working, especially if a person has eaten a meal close to bedtime.
The position in which a person sleeps can influence how gravity affects the stomach and digestive tract. Because the stomach sits slightly toward the left side of the body, sleeping on the left side may help food move more naturally through the digestive system. This positioning may also help keep stomach contents lower than the esophagus, potentially reducing occasional discomfort during the night.
Many people report feeling more comfortable when resting on their left side, particularly after larger meals. Although individual experiences vary, the relationship between body position and digestion has become a topic of increasing interest among sleep specialists.