The most common resolutions made at New Year this year were health-related: according to YouGov data, 50% of resolution-making Americans planned to exercise more and 43% wanted to eat more healthily. Diet and exercise are usually the first things that come to mind when you think about improving your health, but for a holistic approach to good health, there are many more factors to consider. Perhaps one of the most surprising is clothing choice. Choosing your clothing carefully can contribute to a picture of overall good health — and just as importantly, it can benefit the environment too.
Chemicals are often used in clothes production
Chemicals are a concern in the production of all consumer products, but there have been few studies into the effect of chemicals in clothing on our health. However, the fashion industry uses a lot of chemicals, and there are some health problems associated with them. For example, garments advertised as being ‘wrinkle-resistant’ often contain formaldehyde, and this has been linked with skin allergies and eye irritation. Formaldehyde isn’t the only chemical found in our clothes though: other chemicals used in the fashion industry include nanosilver (found in ‘antimicrobial’ clothes), azo dyes (used for coloring), dimethylformamide (found in acrylic fabrics) and phthalates (found in faux leather and waterproofs).
There is no concrete evidence that the chemicals used in clothing production cause serious health problems, but allergies and skin irritations can be exacerbated by them. Furthermore, existing clinical research suggests that the chemicals frequently found in clothing may be linked to kidney, lung and liver disorders, cancer and neurotoxicity. While chemicals are frequently used in clothes manufacturing, this isn’t necessary, and the best way to avoid them is to look for natural fabrics like cotton, which doesn’t require any chemicals to process. Cotton has the added advantage of being a renewable resource, which has some environmental benefit, although it should be noted that it also requires a lot of land and water and sustain. Other natural fabrics that require little chemical processing include linen, silk, wool and hemp.
Shapewear and tight fits cause health problems
While we’re sold the idea that a smooth figure makes us look healthier, using shapewear to achieve it isn’t great for our health. It’s designed to be very tight, and this puts pressure on our internal organs. If it’s worn for long periods of time, this can bring health problems, as well as increasing the chances of heartburn and acid reflux. Furthermore, shapewear or tight-fitting pants like skinny jeans can cause nerve damage by constricting your thighs, and this has even been associated with compartment syndrome (caused when body tissue swells and pressure builds up). Yoga pants bring similar concerns, with the addition of the risk of fungal infections due to sweating in them. Aim for clothes with a looser fit that allow your skin to breathe. Anything that constricts your body isn’t great for your health.
Similarly, an ill-fitting bra — one that’s either too loose or too tight — can cause you health problems. A well-fitted bra should support the weight of the breasts, removing the pressure from your spine, back and shoulders. If your bra leaves you with indentation marks, the fit isn’t correct, and your body is taking unnecessary strain. Always get a bra fitted in the store you’re buying from, as sizes can vary dramatically between manufacturers.
Whole health requires us to look at every aspect of our lifestyle – from the food we eat to the clothes we wear. To improve the health of your closet, look for natural fabrics and avoid tight-fitting clothing. You’re bound to feel more comfortable, and you might be surprised by the number of mild irritations that subside.
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