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VERIFY: Is It Healthier To Sleep On Your Left Side?

You ask; we VERIFY. Is it better for digestion and other health reasons to sleep on your left side versus right?

GREENSBORO, North Carolina — The next time you climb in bed, think about how you're lying down -- it could affect everything from your comfort to digestion!

VERIFY QUESTION

Good Morning Show viewer Sara Barber from Liberty asked, "I read on Facebook you're healthier if you sleep on your left side versus on your right side. Is there any way you can VERIFY this for me? Thank you!"

VERIFY SOURCE

VERIFY PROCESS

The National Sleep Foundation says back sleeping is the healthiest position, because it allows your head, neck and spine to rest in a neutral position. But, it's not good for snorers or sleep apnea sufferers. Side sleep is best for sleep apnea, as it keeps the airways open and decreases acid reflux.

The idea that left-side sleep is better than right-side sleep stems from the ancient oriental medicine called Ayurveda. It credits anatomy for this conclusion. If one lies on his or her left side, the stomach and gastric juices are lower than the esophagus, allowing easier drainage.

Healthline says modern research supports this theory. Left-side sleeping aids in digestion, helping waste get ready to leave your body. A study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology proved left-side sleep also decreases heart burn.

VERIFY CONCLUSION

The post Barber saw is true -- left-side sleeping is generally healthier than ride-side sleeping, 

Do you have a VERIFY inquiry? Reach out to Meghann Mollerus via Facebook:

Facebook: Meghann Mollerus News

E-mail: Mmollerus@wfmy.com

Twitter: @MeghannMollerus

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