Millions of dollars have been spent researching and testing various products like pillows to optimize his sleep and overall health.
Through extensive testing, using the right pillow can make a significant difference in sleep quality.
In this post, we will examine science-backed pillow insights for achieving optimal sleep, the science behind his decision, and other sleep optimization tactics.
Top pick: ZAMAT Contour Memory Foam Pillow
Best Pillow for Longevity
The ZAMAT Contour Memory Foam Pillow is popular among biohackers like Bryan Johnson for neck pain relief and optimal sleep.
- Unique ergonomic 'pocket' design
- Promotes healthy sleep positions
- 365 day warranty
This ergonomic pillow is designed to align the neck and spine properly.
Bryan measured his internal jugular vein (IJV) blood flow rates in real time with different pillows.
He discovered that the ZAMAT pillow in the right sleeping position gave him the best IJV flow results.
Related: Grounding Sheets Recommendation
Why Bryan Uses This Pillow
The ZAMAT pillow is made of memory foam that molds to the contours of the head and neck.
This provides comfortable support, whether sleeping on the back, side, or stomach.
Bryan opts for side sleeping, and the raised edges support proper neck alignment for side sleeping.
The pillow’s adjustable loft allows customization of height and firmness.
The breathable memory foam also helps regulate temperature.
This is important for uninterrupted, restful sleep.
Optimal Sleeping Positions
In pillow tests, certain sleeping positions produced the best results.
Right Side Sleeping
Sleeping on the right side can potentially optimize IJV blood flow the most.
Having the correct pillow height and firmness is key for right-side sleeping.
Left Side Sleeping
The left side comes second in optimizing IJV blood flow.
The contour pillow supports the neck properly in this position.
Back Sleeping
Some have found that back sleeping is not ideal for IJV blood flow.
However, the ZAMAT pillow’s indented center provides some support for back sleepers.
Sleep Position Science
The position in which we sleep can play a significant role in determining the quality of our sleep and can have various impacts on our health.
Over the years, research has shed light on how different sleeping positions – back, side, and stomach – affect our body, highlighting both their benefits and potential drawbacks.
Understanding these can help individuals make informed choices about their sleeping habits, potentially improving sleep quality and addressing specific health concerns.
| Sleeping Position | Benefits | Downsides |
|---|---|---|
| Back | – Reduces back and neck pain by maintaining a neutral position. – Minimizes wrinkles and acne by keeping the face off the pillow. – Can help reduce acid reflux with the head elevated. | – Can increase snoring and worsen sleep apnea. – Not recommended for pregnant women. |
| Side | – Reduces acid reflux and heartburn. – Can alleviate neck and back pain by maintaining spine alignment. | – Can cause wrinkles and acne due to face pressing against the pillow. – May lead to shoulder and arm numbness. |
| Stomach | – Can decrease snoring and ease sleep apnea symptoms. | – Can lead to neck and back pain due to twisted or bent neck. – Puts pressure on muscles and joints, potentially leading to numbness, tingling, aches, and irritated nerves. |
It’s important to note that individual preferences and health conditions play a crucial role in determining the most suitable sleeping position.
