Radek Tesár 20. 5. 2025 clock 4 minutes video
The right sleep position can improve digestion, relieve flatulence and even promote weight loss. Little details decide how to lie down in the evening to work overnight.
Did you know that not only what you eat, but also how you sleep can affect your digestion? Sleep is not just a time of rest, it is also a moment when the body is completing a number of processes, including food processing. While you are sleeping, stomach, intestines and liver are going to full speed. And the location in which you fall asleep can decide whether to wake up in the morning with a feeling of lightness or with a bloated belly. In the article we look at which position is best for digestion, and why it pays to watch out for what you eat in the evening.
YouTube video about what the position of sleeping on digestion can be found on the Dr. Deepak Subraminian:
Source: YouTube
What are the right positions when sleeping
Sleep on the left side is considered one of the best elections if you want to support your digestion. Since the stomach is located on the left, gravity can naturally help when moving food towards the small and large intestine. This position is particularly suitable for people suffering from reflux or heartburn. Sleep on the left side helps prevent the return of gastric acid to the esophagus. In addition, some studies suggest that the position on the side can also improve the function of the brain during sleep because it helps to wash away toxins. To maintain the right position, it is important to have a fixed mattress and a suitable pillow that will support the neck and spine.
Sleep on the back can be particularly advantageous for those who are facing back or cervical spine pain. The body in this position rests in a evenly distributed axis, which helps the correct position of the spine. Sleep on the back also reduces the pressure on the joints and helps prevent wrinkles because the face remains freely above the pillow. However, this position may not be ideal for digestion. Gravity does not help too much some people can worsen heartburn. It is also problematic for people who are snoring or suffering from sleep apnea, as the tongue can slip back and narrow the airways in this position.
On the contrary, sleep on the abdomen is generally not recommended. Although it may seem comfortable to some people, in practice it often leads to health complications. This position forces the cervical spine to dial, which can cause back and head pain. In addition, it pushes on the stomach and other internal organs, which can make digestion more difficult. Long -term sleeping on the abdomen also increases the risk of limb numbness due to nerve compression. If someone already prefers this position, it is recommended to at least place a solid pillow under the hips to relieve the pressure on the lumbar area. In general, however, it is recommended to abandon this position.
What to watch out before bedtime
Finally, it is important to mention what (not) eat before bed. Heavy or spicy foods, alcohol, coffee or sweet drinks can significantly disrupt not only digestion but also the quality of sleep. If you enjoy a great dinner or something fat in the evening, the body will focus on digestion instead of resting, which can lead to heartburn, convulsions or restlessness during the night. It is ideal to eat the last meal at least three hours before lying down, light, well digestible and in smaller quantities. A suitable choice are cooked vegetables, a little rice or banana. And do not forget the drinking regime! In the evening better water than coffee or sweetened teas. So if you combine the right evening routine with a suitable sleep position, your body and relaxed mind will surely thank you.
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