By Bryana Holcomb, BDO Staff Writer
Most of us want to follow the fashion trends that are currently in style. Tight jeans, cute bras, and high heels, but what many of us may not expect to find out is that these common items could be causing health issues for our bodies. Finding the proper fit in any piece of clothing that you wear not only looks better, but also does a lot for maintaining a healthy lifestyle than you may think.
Tight Pants
Everyone loves a good pair of skinny jeans that show off our curves. Although when a pair is too tight, you can begin to cause damage to your lower extremities. Common symptoms include sore muscles, numbness, and rashes. This is because over time your nerves become compressed and your blood flow is greatly reduced.
Prolonged wear will begin to show through damage to your muscles. One of the worst offenders are leggings who become a breeding ground for bacteria and skin rashes as they are tight and often encourage the build-up of sweat.
If your pant of choice for everyday wear is skinny jeans or leggings, opt for pairs with some stretch to them. Remember to wash them often and always wear clean underwear in between as a barrier layer.
Bras
A well-fitting bra can do a lot for a woman’s confidence and also provides her with the daily support she needs. When the bra is too large or too small, however, many surprising health issues can arise. A bra that fits tight will place a strain on the muscles throughout the back, neck, and shoulders causing pain, fatigue, and postural issues.
Sweat can also build up under a tight band leading to a wide range of skin rashes and infections. When your straps begin to dig into your skin this can also lead to bruising. Underwires that dig into the lower part of your breasts can become open wounds that turn into scars It’s worth noting that loose fitting bras are not any better for your health. The lack of support loose fitting bras has encouraged breast sagging and muscle strain as gravity steps in to do its job. Bulging, overflow, cup gaping, and underwire sitting above the breast are all clear signs that your bra does not fit well.
Take the time once a year to get properly sized for a bra that gives you the support you need. Not only will it look better under clothing, but it puts you on track to maintain strong breast health.
Underwear
Underwear often creates a warm and welcoming environment to a host of bacteria’s. You may even be surprised to know that certain fabrics and color dyes can have an effect on this. Particularly for women: thongs, which move bacteria easily from the back to the front lead to yeast and urinary tract infections.
For men, tight boxer briefs can limit the production of sperm as the internal temperature of the scrotum rises from restriction.