The many forms of shapewear, and not just waist trainers, give that sexy form fitting attire a more sleek and smooth look. However, many have complained about the pain and faint feelings associated with wearing these garments. While the cost of ‘beauty’ can be painful, it’s important to keep in mind that certain practices might end up doing more harm than good.
Here are a few ways your favorite shapewear (waist trainers included) can poorly affect the way your health and well being in the long run:
Organ Compression
The entire reason why shapewear works is because it compresses. Given that fact, the garment puts tremendous pressure on your stomach, intestines, and colon. In an interview with Huffington Post, gastroenterologist Dr. John Kuemmerle shared that restrictive clothing can make acid reflux and heartburn worse, and provoke erosive esophagitis.
Bowel Issues
Placing unnatural pressure on your intestines can interrupt effective food digestion. A properly functioning colon is one of the most vital components of good health. According to Dr. Kuemmerle, “It’s like when people eat a huge meal and then unbuckle their jeans.” Wearing the shapewear can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating and gas, but these are not permanent. It’s important to note, those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other bowel disorders should wear shapewear with caution.
Numbness
It is rarely recommended that people sit in shapewear for long periods of time, as doing so can cause a condition known as “meralgia parenthetic”. This is caused by nerves in your thighs being compressed. Symptoms of this include tingling, numbness and pain in the legs. According to chiropractor Dr. Karen Erickson, “It’s like putting these giant rubber bands around your upper thighs and tightening them when you sit.” It decreases the circulation in your legs, and could even lead to blood clots.
Unfortunately, how waist trainers and other forms of shapewear affect an individual can vary from person to person. At the end of the day, however, it’s important to weigh the possible risks to ensure that a desirable outward appearance matches your internal health and well being.
