It’s hard to argue with the benefits of shapewear. Since its inception, it’s had us cinched, smoothed, and sucked in to perfection. But could those pieces actually be leaving you worse for the wear?
If you think you’re just cutting off your blood circulation while wearing Spanx, think again. Though many of us will deal with the pain and suffering to look better, most of us have no idea about the health ramifications of these garments. Here are just a few of them.
Slowed metabolism
Ever put on these powerful panties and feel like you literally can’t breathe? Well, you’re right!
Shapewear couldn’t do its job if it wasn’t tight. While it might give you the flat belly and streamlined curves you want, it constricts your diaphragm and lungs, slowing your metabolism. Your best bet is to avoid any kind of compression shapewear that minimizes your oxygen intake, decreases your metabolism, and packs on the pounds.
Compressed organs
In addition to compressing your diaphragm and lungs, shapewear compresses your entire digestive tract – this includes the stomach, colon, small intestine, and liver. This unnecessary pressure is like a traffic jam in your body, meaning it takes a lot more time and energy to move things through. This causes food to sit in your system which, according to gastroenterologist Dr. John Kuemmerle, causes you a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms such as acid reflux, heartburn, gas, and bloating.
Bad posture
It’s not just your organs that you need to be cautious of, your muscles can suffer if you rely on shapewear for good posture. Chiropractor Dr. Karen Erickson said that many people use shapewear as a crutch to avoid gaining muscle, but don’t be fooled into thinking that shapewear works like a medical back brace. Becoming reliant on it can be harmful in the years to come.
Is it worth it?
Are you hurting your body in the name of smooth garment lines? While you might look good, you won’t feel all that great. While Dr. Erickson concedes that it’s ok if you wear it for an evening or a special occasion, she says it’s not a good idea to wear it daily and sit in it for hours on end. So just keep that shapewear for special occasions and keep doing your Oxycise! Your body will thank you.
