Samuel Okoruwa
In the words of Kanye West: “Why everything that’s supposed to be bad make me feel so right?” If you take a look at most bad habits you would find that this is quite true. Some of the worst habits are actually those that make us feel comfortable.
When it comes to bedtime, sleeping on the stomach is the position that feels most comfortable for most people. Yet, this position has been shown to be bad for your health and sometimes – even dangerous. Here are some reasons why
Your Arteries Get Constricted
When you sleep on your tummy, the arteries near your backbone get constricted because your head is turned to the side. As a result, there is a decrease in blood flow to the brain. This position can be particularly dangerous for people who have high levels of cholesterol and whose arteries are potentially blocked with plaque. The brain can be left without oxygen for long and this is a recipe for disaster! Even if this may not be the case for everyone, doctors are convinced that people should be weary of this sleeping position.
Your Chest Gets Compressed
Sleeping on your stomach compresses your chest which makes breathing less efficient. When you’re not breathing properly, your body won’t get enough oxygen. This can result in you feeling tired and sluggish in the morning. And you know what that means for your productivity. Also, sleeping on the stomach puts pressure on soft tissue located in the chest. In the long run, this can lead to congestions, mastitis, or cysts.
Your Stomach Health Is At Risk
If you go to sleep in this position, the organs around your stomach could stop doing their job properly over time. Also, sleeping in this position on a full stomach can lead to acid reflux, which is not only uncomfortable but can lead to gastritis and ulcer.
You Put Pressure On Your Face
If you look in the mirror after sleeping on your stomach all night, you may find that all the creases on the bed sheet are imprinted on your cheeks and forehead. When you sleep in this position all night, your face gets compressed by the pillow and this cuts off blood circulation under the skin. This leads puffiness and permanent wrinkles. Eventually, this may may you look older than your age. If you don’t to get permanent wrinkles then you should consider sleeping in a different position.
You Flex Your Neck In An Unnatural Position
Sleeping on your tummy causes the blood vessels and nerve endings around the neck and shoulder area to get constricted. If care is not taken, this can lead to a tear in a blood vessel resulting in a stroke. Not only that, you’ll most likely wake up with as stiff and sore neck no matter what. It’s always important to keep your head in a natural position when sleeping. So, change your sleeping position and pick a pillow that supports your neck properly.
READ ALSO: Practical Tips For Sleeping Well
Nevertheless, there are some cases where sleeping on your stomach can be good for your health. For instance, people with kidney disease might feel better when the lie in this position because it doesn’t put pressure on their kidneys. Whatever the case may be, go for the sleeping position that suits you based on your health and comfort level.
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