A dangerous position that many don't suspect: sleeping on your stomach
Why it can be harmful:
Strong stress on the neck and spine
The head is turned unnaturally → tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders
• Increases the risk of cervical osteochondrosis, headaches, numbness in the handsCompression of internal organs
Especially the liver, stomach and intestines
• In steatosis (fatty liver) → further worsens blood flow and metabolismBreathing problems
Chest constricts → breathing becomes shallower
• Can increase snoring and even cause short apnoea pausesIncreased strain on the heart (in some people)
Especially if you are overweight or have cardiovascular diseaseCosmetic consequences
Wrinkles on the face and neckline (due to constant pressure from the pillow/mattress)
Best sleeping positions
On your back – the most physiological
Pros:
Even load on the spine
The face is free → fewer “pillow wrinkles”
A pillow under the knees relieves the lower back
On one side – also an excellent choice (especially on the left)
Left shoulder helps with:
fatty liver (better blood supply)
reflux and heartburn
pregnancy
Mandatory: a pillow between the knees to avoid twisting the pelvis.
Conclusion
Sleeping on your stomach is the riskiest for liver, spinal, respiratory, and heart problems.
Relearning to sleep on your side is entirely possible, but it requires patience and proper preparation.
How to learn to sleep on your side – step by step
1. “Tactical” pillows
Large pillow in front of the abdomen – stops rolling forward
Pillow between the knees – reduces stress on the pelvis and lower back
A small pillow behind the back - stabilizes the side posture.
Pregnancy pillows (U- or C-shaped) fix the body perfectly.
2. Choosing the right side
Left - recommended for liver problems, GERD, pregnancy, digestive complaints.
The right side – may be more comfortable for some heart conditions (consult a doctor!).
3. Orthopedic pillow
The height is chosen according to the width of the shoulders so that the neck and spine remain in one line.
4. Medium-firm mattress
Too soft → you "sink", it's hard to hold the side pose.
Too hard → shoulder and pelvis hurt.
5. Stomach sleep restraints
Sleep with a tennis ball sewn to the back of your pajamas – it prevents turning over.
There are special training vests.
6. Gradual transition
Sleep on your side; if you turn over during the night – no problem, continue.
In 2-3 weeks the body gets used to it.
Bonus habits before bed
A warm shower or bath – relaxes muscles
Chamomile or lemon balm tea
No screens before bed – so you don't fall asleep "in a bad position" with your phone
Selecting the height of the pillow according to height and weight
| Height | Weight | Recommended height |
|---|---|---|
| up to 165 cm | up to 60 kg | 8–10 cm |
| 165–180 cm | 60–80 kg | 10–12 cm |
| over 180 cm | 80–100+ kg | 12–14 cm |
The pillow should "fill" the distance from the neck to the end of the shoulder to keep the spine straight.
Ideal types of pillows for side sleepers
Orthopedic "wave"
Shape: double wave (also suitable for the back).
Material: natural latex or memory foam.
Classic but dense
Filling: latex, buckwheat flakes, dense holofiber or memory foam.
Anatomical with shoulder cutout
It has a groove for the head and a niche for the shoulder - excellent for pain in the shoulder area.
Tips
Avoid down and feathers – they shed, collect dust, and are allergenic.
Test the pillow in the store: lie on your side, ask someone to take a picture of your profile; if your head is not in line with your spine, the height is wrong.
The best materials for people with allergies
| Material | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Natural latex | Hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant, breathable |
| Memory foam | Antibacterial, contour-adapting, dust-free |
| Bamboo | Natural, breathable, antibacterial (as filling or cover) |
| Buckwheat flakes | Ventilate, do not retain mites (make a little "noise", need replacement) |
| Holofiber / Ecofiber | Synthetic but hypoallergenic, slightly softer |
Avoid down, feathers, cotton, and low-quality synthetics - they are the most common allergens.
Additionally
Bamboo or cotton cover – natural, breathable, hypoallergenic.
Wash the covers once a week; the cushions – according to the instructions.
If necessary – protective anti-mite covers.
Examples (for orientation)
IKEA ROSENSKΓRM – budget hypoallergenic fiber pillow.
Ormatek Bamboo – bamboo filling/case.
Tempur Comfort Original - ventilated memory foam.
Ascona LATEX – 100% natural latex.
Gradually, with the right pillows, a comfortable mattress, and patience, you can learn to sleep on your side. This will relieve your spine, support your liver, and improve your overall sleep quality.
0 Comments:
Post a Comment