Did you know the way your blood pressure is measured might not be giving the full picture? Turns out, lying down might be the better way to go—literally. A recent study has flipped the script on the usual practice of taking blood pressure readings while sitting.

The current method requires patients to sit in a specific way: feet flat, back supported, and arm at heart level. But let’s be real, how often does that happen perfectly in a busy doctor’s office? Even when done correctly, the study suggests it’s not the best way to assess your heart health. Instead, readings taken while lying down could be the game-changer.

Researchers found that blood pressure measured in a lying position was far more accurate at predicting risks like heart disease, stroke, and even death. For example, people with high blood pressure while lying down—but normal readings when seated—were 53% more likely to develop heart disease. And the risks only went up from there. Those who had high readings in both positions faced the highest dangers.

But here’s the kicker: if your blood pressure is high only when sitting, the risks aren’t as severe. This suggests that lying-down readings might capture something seated ones miss. So, what’s the deal? Experts think it could be because lying down gives a truer “resting” blood pressure, or maybe the strain on your heart and brain is just different in that position.

The study isn’t the final word—more research is needed to confirm these findings. But if you’re curious, it might be worth checking your blood pressure at home in both positions. Just remember, the study had participants rest for 20 minutes before taking readings. So, maybe skip the quick check and give it some time.

In the meantime, this research could shake up how doctors measure and manage blood pressure in the future. Who knew lying down could be so revealing?