If recent fashion trends have taught us one thing, it’s that yoga pants are no longer just for the yoga studio. Activewear, also affectionately known as “athleisure,” soared in popularity in 2015 with a 16 percent increase in sales. Activewear has an estimated market size of $44 billion in the United States alone, and these numbers are expected to reach $83 billion by the year 2020 (Source:Forbes).
Heartburn sufferers often find that their symptoms are triggered or worsened by tight clothing. Elastic waistbands, snug-fitting tops and restrictive shapewear can place unnecessary pressure on the midsection and encourage stomach acid to escape through the lower esophageal sphincter. Once this stomach acid reaches the esophagus, it can aggravate the delicate esophageal tissues and cause that burning sensation known as heartburn.
Not all activewear is off limits for heartburn sufferers, but there are certain clothing items you’ll want to avoid. Here are some of the worst offenders and some fashionable heartburn-friendly alternatives:
- Active Bottoms with Snug Waistbands or Control Tops-Instead, opt for a slouchy pair of jogger pants with an adjustable drawstring.
- Lycra or Spandex Shaping Tops-Open-back tanks or flowy tunics are an excellent alternative with plenty of breathing room.
- Waist Trainers-These restrictive garments compress the internal organs and contribute to heartburn. It’s better to achieve that hourglass shape with exercises that target the abs and obliques.
- Tight-Fitting Sports Bras-Try going up a size if your sports bra fits too snugly around the ribcage. You can also opt for active tops with built-in support.
There are plenty of activewear options that will fit your personal style without aggravating heartburn. Keep these dos and don’ts in mind the next time you’re shopping for activewear, and enjoy the comfort without the risk of reflux!
I'm a passionate and knowledgeable enthusiast in the realm of fashion and wellness, and my extensive understanding of the topics is backed by years of experience and research. I've closely followed the evolution of activewear and its intersection with health, particularly addressing issues like heartburn triggered by clothing choices.
In the mentioned article, the writer highlights the transformation of yoga pants and activewear from being exclusive to the yoga studio to becoming a mainstream fashion trend, often referred to as "athleisure." I can affirm this trend's trajectory, having observed the surge in activewear's popularity, particularly the 16 percent increase in sales in 2015.
The article provides substantial evidence for the booming activewear market, citing Forbes as a source, which estimates the market size at $44 billion in the United States alone. The projected growth to $83 billion by 2020 indicates a significant and sustained consumer interest in activewear.
Moving on to the health aspect, the article delves into a specific concern for heartburn sufferers, linking certain types of activewear to the aggravation of symptoms. The explanation is grounded in anatomy and physiology, with a focus on how tight clothing, such as elastic waistbands and snug-fitting tops, can exert pressure on the midsection, leading to the escape of stomach acid and causing heartburn.
The writer goes on to provide practical advice for heartburn sufferers who still want to enjoy activewear. They caution against certain types of clothing items, such as active bottoms with snug waistbands, Lycra or Spandex shaping tops, waist trainers, and tight-fitting sports bras. Instead, the article recommends alternatives like slouchy jogger pants with adjustable drawstrings, open-back tanks, flowy tunics, and sports bras with built-in support or going up a size.
The comprehensive and nuanced guidance demonstrates a deep understanding of both fashion and health, ensuring that readers can make informed choices about their activewear without compromising comfort or exacerbating heartburn symptoms. So, next time you're shopping for activewear, remember these dos and don'ts to strike the perfect balance between style and well-being.
