Getting Good Sleep is Great for Your Heart
When we talk about keeping your heart healthy, sleep is a big part of the conversation. Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a heart doctor, says that sleep helps your body rest and fix itself. This is super important for your heart because it helps control things like blood pressure, inflammation, and blood sugar levels.
A study in 2020 said that the American Heart Association should include “sleep” as one of the important things for heart health, along with things like eating healthy and exercising. The American Heart Association listened and even changed the name to “Life’s Essential 8” to include sleep.
But if you really care about your heart health, which side should you sleep on? Let’s talk about it.
Sleeping on Your Side is Best
Sleeping on your side is generally good for your heart because it can help with problems like sleep apnea, where you stop breathing for short times while sleeping. Dr. Renato Apolito says sleep apnea is a big risk for heart problems, and sleeping on your side can help keep your airway open and blood flowing well.
Avoid sleeping on your back if you have sleep apnea because it can make it worse. And definitely don’t sleep on your stomach—it’s bad for your breathing and your neck and back.
What About Back Pain?
Back pain is common, especially as you get older. It can make it hard to sleep, which isn’t good for your back or heart. Dr. Rohit Vuppuluri says it’s more important to find a comfy sleeping position than worry too much about which is best.
But if you have sleep apnea or heartburn, side sleeping is usually better.
Side Sleeping Helps Your Brain Too
Sleeping on your side might also help your brain stay healthy, which is important for your heart too. Dr. Tadwalkar says it can help your brain clean out waste and might lower the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s.
The Right Side Could Be Extra Good for Your Heart
Sleeping on your right side might be especially good for your heart if you have heart failure or certain heart problems. Dr. Salazar says it can lower pressure in your heart and keep it in a good position.
Left Side for Digestion
If you have heartburn, try sleeping on your left side. It can help keep stomach acid from coming up into your throat.
Tips for Better Sleep
- Exercise and do things to relax your mind during the day.
- Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Have a calming bedtime routine, like reading a book or doing relaxation exercises. Avoid drinking alcohol before bed because it can mess with your sleep.
Remember, getting good sleep is not only important for feeling good but also for keeping your heart healthy!
Source: [Parade]
https://parade.com/health/best-sleep-side-for-heart-health-according-to-cardiologists