For about a dozen years now I’ve had issues with heartburn. It’s more than the occasional thing you can treat with tums or whatever. Don’t worry. I’m seeing a doctor. I have access to good medical advice. That side of things is under control. I take medication that mostly works.
And of course I’m also looking for the easy things I can do to limit episodes of acid reflux and heartburn so that the drugs work all the time. You likely know the drill. This issue is pretty common. Limit coffee, chocolate, and fried foods. Don’t eat close to bedtime. Get some movement in after dinner. It’s all the usual healthy stuff.
But I learned a new thing after talking with Victoria about bras. Bras can be part of the problem. I had wondered why the heartburn issue was often worse after riding my bike or going to the gym. Turns out it might be my sports bra that’s to blame.
I’ve read the following articles and I’m going to try out some more gentle, less constrictive bras. I’ll report back.
Activewear Dos and Don’ts for Heartburn Sufferers
“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.”
The Surprising Side Effects Of Wearing A Bra
“If you’re having some gut issues like acid reflux, your bra might be to blame. Yes, really. Wearing a bra (every day) that’s too tight can place a lot of pressure on your midsection, especially a tight sports bra, according to the Maryland Surgery Center. They recommend you buy a bigger size if you notice that your sports bra hugs your ribcage a little too affectionately.
“Tight clothing, such as Spanx, on the abdomen can increase intra-abdominal pressure to the point that one can experience acid reflux from acid being pushed from the stomach into the lower esophagus,” says Dr. Heather Downes (via Healthline). If you notice your acid reflux getting worse or start experiencing it for the first time after you start wearing a new bra, there’s a good chance that it’s the culprit.”
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