Sleep on Your Left Side to Reduce GERD: Meta-Analysis Confirms
Does Sleeping on Your Left Side Really Reduce GERD Symptoms?
Yes, sleeping in the left lateral decubitus position (on your left side) significantly improves gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms compared to right-side or back sleeping, according to this comprehensive meta-analysis. The left-side position reduces acid exposure time and reflux episodes through favorable anatomical positioning of the stomach and esophagus.
Dr. Kumar’s Take
This meta-analysis provides solid evidence for one of the oldest and simplest GERD recommendations - sleep on your left side. The anatomy makes perfect sense: when you’re on your left side, the stomach sits below the esophageal opening, making it harder for acid to flow backward. It’s remarkable that something as simple as changing sleep position can have measurable effects on acid exposure. This is especially valuable for patients with nighttime GERD symptoms who want to avoid additional medications.