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What is the best sleeping position? 

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Most people spend a third of their lives either asleep or resting, according to the Sleep Foundation. During sleep, the body recharges and repairs itself. And a good night’s sleep often can be determined by what position you are lying in bed. Back-sleepers beware. “I know many people find it to be comfortable because they’re not putting weight on their joints,” says Dr. Lois Krahn, a Mayo Clinic sleep specialist. 

But Mayo Clinic experts say sleeping on your back is actually the worst sleeping position, especially if you have sleep apnea because the tongue and jaw can fall down and crowd the airway. Sleeping on your stomach helps keep the airway open, but it can put a strain on your spine and neck. “There’s a host of evidence overall suggesting that probably sleeping on the side is better,” says Dr. Virend Somers, a cardiologist, and director of the sleep facility within Mayo Clinic’s Center for Clinical and Translational Science. Side sleeping helps prevent the airway from collapsing and can reduce snoring. 

Mayo Clinic News Network

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