Is there a correct sleeping position? See what science says

When we talk about sleep, we imagine that the main factor for a peaceful night depends only on sleep, but few people think about how body posture affects this important part of life. But is there a correct sleeping position?

The answer, according to some experts and studies: Yes! After all, poor sleeping posture can lead to back pain, neck pain, fatigue, sleep apnea, cramps, poor circulation, and even heartburn. So, discover now the best position for nap time.

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What is the correct sleeping position?

A good night's sleep is certainly refreshing when we sleep soundly. But if you often wake up tired or feel pain in parts of your body, like your spine, for example, something is wrong. This may have something to do with the position you usually sleep in at night.

Although experts say there is no right or wrong when it comes to rest, at the end of the day, everyone has their favorite sleeping position, and the truth is that some positions bring more benefits than others.

Sleeping on your side, for example, may be the best position for people with digestive issues, especially those with reflux. Since the heart, major arteries, veins and stomach are located on the left side, lying down in this way reduces internal pressure and provides better circulation of blood and food in the digestive system.

Experts also recommend this position to help reduce snoring and sleep apnea, because it contributes to reducing the effect of gravity on the airways.

Studies reveal the best sleeping position

Above all, some research shows that sleeping on your side is the best sleeping position. Like a study from Denmark, in which researchers used small motion sensors attached to volunteers' thighs, upper back and arms before bed, to determine their preferred position.

The finding was that people spent just over half of their sleep time lying on their side, about 38% lying on their back and 7% lying on their stomach. The older they get, the more time they spend on the sidelines.

Another study published in the scientific journal Journal of Neuroscience revealed that sleeping on the right side can benefit the lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels responsible for eliminating toxic waste and metabolism from the central nervous system. In turn, this process contributes to helping prevent diseases associated with cognitive decline, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

According to Luciano Miller, an orthopedist and spine surgeon at Albert Einstein Hospital in Israel, sleeping on your side with a pillow at the appropriate height, which is measured from the ear to the side of the shoulder, is the best way to sleep. Moreover, the doctor says that the position is best to relax the spine, avoiding overload and discomfort.