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FULL OF KNOWLEDGE BLOG ONSEN® / About Sleep

Why you should avoid sleeping on your right side?

30 maja 2025
Contents
Impact on the circulatory system
Problems with the digestive system
Influence on the lymphatic system and body detoxification
Sleep quality and regeneration
Most people are aware that the sleeping position affects not only comfort, but also, in many ways, the overall health of the body. Although some people don’t pay attention to their sleeping position, it's important to know that the choice of position has specific consequences and impacts health.

Although at first glance it may seem that it doesn't matter which side you sleep on, more and more studies point to the benefits of sleeping on the left side compared to the right. This primarily relates to improved heart function, but also the digestive, lymphatic, and respiratory systems. Understanding these significant differences can help improve both sleep quality and overall health.

Impact on the circulatory system

Sleeping on the right side increases the strain on the heart, especially in people with cardiovascular diseases. In this position, the heart must pump blood against the force of gravity, which can lead to higher blood pressure and disrupt its function. Moreover, various scientific studies suggest that people with heart failure simply feel more discomfort when sleeping on the right side.

Human anatomy is more suited to sleeping on the left side, because the aorta naturally arches to the left. Meanwhile, lying on the right side puts extra pressure on the arteries, which can seriously hinder the heart’s efficiency. Some sources indicate that sleeping on the left side improves blood circulation, reducing the risk of disease.

This is especially important for pregnant women, as it is recommended to avoid sleeping on the right side to minimize pressure on the inferior vena cava. During pregnancy, sleeping on the left side is considered the optimal sleep position to ensure proper circulation for both mother and baby.

Reducing cardiac strain during sleep affects not only overall health but also the quality of sleep and bodily recovery—something every conscious person cares about. Many people who change their sleeping position to the left side often report feeling better upon waking.

Problems with the digestive system

Although many studies suggest otherwise, some indicate that sleeping on the right side promotes the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux in individuals prone to it. This is due to the anatomy of the stomach, which in this position is situated above the esophagus, making it easier for stomach acids to flow back. At the same time, doctors and scientists agree that prolonged exposure of the esophagus to acid leads to serious health conditions, including mucosal damage.

However, pressure from the stomach on other abdominal organs occurs mainly when sleeping on the left side, although this is not a rule. Still, many people with digestive issues report worsened symptoms after sleeping on the right side. Interestingly, sleeping on the left side facilitates the movement of food through the intestines.

Influence on the lymphatic system and body detoxification

The lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins and metabolic waste products from the body. Its main structures are located on the left side of the body and are not symmetrical. Therefore, sleeping on the right side may restrict lymph flow and hinder effective detoxification.

Lying on the left side supports proper lymph drainage into the thoracic duct, which is located on the left side of the body. This makes it easier to eliminate toxins from the liver, improving the function of the immune system. This is especially important at night, when the body regenerates and undergoes repair processes.

Research shows that sleeping on the left side may also support liver function, as the liver is less burdened in this position, making it more effective at filtering toxins. It also benefits the spleen, which is likewise located on the left side and plays a key role in filtering both blood and lymph.

Restricted lymph flow when lying on the right side can lead to a feeling of heavy legs, swelling, and slowed metabolism. That’s why people suffering from lymphatic disorders or varicose veins should especially avoid this position.

Sleep quality and regeneration

Sleep position directly affects the quality of rest and the body’s ability to regenerate during the night. Sleeping on the right side can lead to more frequent awakenings as well as trouble falling asleep. This is linked to the different functioning of the circulatory, digestive, and lymphatic systems, which can place extra strain on the body even during sleep.

In addition, sleeping on the right side may worsen breathing, especially for people with sleep apnea or snoring. Studies have shown that changing sleep position to the left side can reduce the frequency of sleep apnea episodes by improving airflow through the airways.

From a sleep quality perspective, sleeping on the left side is recommended as the most neutral position. It allows for deeper transitions through all sleep phases, including non-REM deep sleep, which is essential for recovery. People who switch from sleeping on the right to the left side often report better sleep quality, more daytime energy, and improved mental well-being.

Fortunately, the Osaka Air mattress is a universal and perfect product. It is suitable for sleeping in any position, including on the right side. We created it to effectively meet our customers' needs and solve their sleep-related problems.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.

FAQ: Sleeping on the right side

Why should you avoid sleeping on your right side?

Sleeping on your right side may negatively impact your health for several reasons. In this position, the heart must pump blood against gravity, which can increase its workload, especially in people with heart conditions. Additionally, most intestinal activity occurs on the right side of the body, so sleeping on that side may hinder digestion. The lymphatic system, which removes toxins from the body, also functions more efficiently when sleeping on the left side.

Why is it better to sleep on your left side?

Sleeping on your left side offers several health benefits. Because of the orientation of the aorta, the heart can pump blood more easily. This position also aids in moving food through the digestive system. Moreover, it improves blood flow to the fetus and reduces pressure on the inferior vena cava during pregnancy.

What happens when you sleep on your right side?

Sleeping on the right side can lead to increased heart strain, as the heart must work harder to pump blood against gravity. Pressure on the intestines may also impair their proper function. Additionally, it can cause lymphatic stagnation and swelling.

Which side is bad for your heart?

Sleeping on the right side may be less favorable for the heart, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular issues. In this position, the heart's workload increases due to gravity. Sleeping on the left side is generally recommended instead.

Which side should you sleep on to relieve heart strain?

To relieve strain on the heart, sleeping on the left side is advised. This position makes it easier for the heart to pump blood and may benefit those with heart problems or pregnant women.

Contents
Impact on the circulatory system
Problems with the digestive system
Influence on the lymphatic system and body detoxification
Sleep quality and regeneration
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