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Suffering from indigestion after indulging in holiday leftovers? The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research suggests that sleeping on your left side can significantly reduce reflux. Digestive issues like indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, gas, heartburn, and acid reflux are common during the holiday season. According to Erin Judge, a registered dietitian nutritionist and gut health expert, routines are crucial for a healthy gut, especially when it comes to sleep, exercise, and meals. However, the holiday season disrupts these routines due to travel, busy schedules, and shorter days, confusing the gut and leading to digestive symptoms

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. Symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn after eating, can worsen at night or while lying down. The Canadian Society of Intestinal Research explains that gravity typically prevents stomach contents from rising into the esophagus, but this protection is lost during sleep. Sleeping on the left side can be helpful since most of the stomach's volume is on the left side of the upper abdomen, keeping the stomach below the esophagus and making it harder for stomach acid to rise

Research has also found that sleeping on the left side helps clear stomach acid faster in individuals with chronic heartburn. If sleeping on the left side is uncomfortable, experts recommend elevating the head and torso 6 to 8 inches above the bed. However, it's important to remember that the entire body should be elevated on an incline, not just the head. Only elevating the head can lead to back or neck pain and increased pressure on the stomach, worsening the symptoms

If changing your sleeping position doesn't provide relief, a simple stomach massage may help alleviate the discomfort.