Side Sleep and Brain Health

Researchers at Stony Brook University discovered that adopting a lateral sleeping position might be more effective in clearing brain waste compared to sleeping on one's back or stomach. Using dynamic contrast MRI to visualize the brain's glymphatic pathway, the study found that the lateral position optimally facilitates waste removal, potentially reducing the risk of neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s.

Sleeping on the side can also help reduce snoring and alleviate sleep apnea symptoms by maintaining an open airway throughout the night. While chiropractors often recommend back sleeping for spinal alignment, I prefer and recommend side sleeping. Although not the most decompressed position from a chiropractic standpoint, a high-quality, firm mattress and a pillow between the legs can create an very supportive position for the spine.

The lateral sleeping position is common among humans and many animals. There are also different health benefits depending on which side you sleep on. Sleeping on the right side is deemed best for the heart and brain, while the left side may benefit those with acid reflux, digestion issues, or during pregnancy.

Much of this information is from the Stony Brook University's study, "The Effect of Body Posture on Glymphatic Transport."

1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11682-020-00413-4

2. https://www.assistinghands-il-wi.com/blog/does-sleeping-position-affect-dementia/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20sleeping%20in%20the,risk%20for%20dementia%20remains%20consistent.

3. https://www.jneurosci.org/content/35/31/11034

4. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-what-is-the-best-sleeping-position/#:~:text=And%20sleeping%20on%20the%20left,and%20promotes%20healthy%20blood%20flow.