If you’re tightening your underwear, you may be making your reflux symptoms worse

We women should be given awards for hiding our imperfections. The right style and cut of clothes and various fashionable practicalities help hide bulging tummies, thick thighs and other areas we consider imperfect. And one of the best helpers is tightening underwear. But what if I told you that wearing them could be harmful?

I remember a time when I constantly saw some flaws on my body, even if they were subtle. I wondered what kind of outerwear I should choose so as not to draw attention to my belly, which looked like a pile of buns. In my mind’s eye, I saw myself as much worse, yet I only had a few healthy extra pounds. But how do you conjure up a more sculpted figure without work? I found the solution in tightening underwear that could smooth out my stomach. I wore it for a while under tighter-fitting clothes, but gradually it became uncomfortable and fell out of my wardrobe.

When the effect reverses

It wasn’t until much later that I discovered that wearing it could have negative health consequences. Although pull-up underwear works as a reliable saviour, it affects the digestive system because of the constricting effect. According to a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, it increases intra-abdominal pressure, which in turn weakens the lower oesophageal sphincter. This is a small muscle that acts as a valve between the stomach and the oesophagus. If the “flap” does not close properly, stomach acid returns. The result is gastroesophageal reflux.

Personally, this disease has not affected me. However, I am grateful that I no longer wear tight underwear, as I suffer from digestive problems quite often and my body could be more susceptible to this disease. Although it is not an immediately life-threatening disease, its long-term complications can be serious. One family member suffered from reflux and mentioned heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, pain in the oesophagus and bloating among its symptoms, as confirmed by experts.

You are also wondering, what a bummer? In the case of women, the explanation lies in hormonal factors. The hormone estrogen affects the function of the lower oesophageal sphincter. Added to this is the prolonged pressure on the abdomen, which contributes to creating an environment for reflux to occur.

Beauty at the cost of health

I understand that the desire for perfection and increased self-esteem is stronger. However, if you suffer from digestive problems and wear tightening underwear, be careful. This doesn’t mean you should give it up completely, but moderation is important. Choose the right size and wear it only occasionally. If you are experiencing bloating, oesophageal burning or other symptoms, your body is telling you that it needs freedom.

Today, I see my body differently, although I can’t say I love it without reservation. I’ve come to realize that a few faldos are not the end of the world and do not indicate failure. Thus, a woman’s body does not deserve to be clenched all day just to meet an imaginary standard of beauty. This is not to say that I condemn tightening underwear, as it is practically useful on some occasions. All I can say in conclusion is this. Listen to your body and don’t ignore the symptoms.