The modern world puts a premium on physical activity. More and more people are consciously choosing a healthy lifestyle, training regularly and keeping in shape. Hand in hand with the growing popularity of sports is also an increased interest in sportswear. Lightweight, breathable and quick-drying materials provide comfort during training, but does this always go hand in hand with safety for our health? Unfortunately, no. Many sports clothes hide a “silent threat” in the form of harmful chemicals that can negatively affect our bodies.
Harmful chemicals in sportswear
The production of sportswear often relies on the use of synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon or acrylic. Although they have properties desirable to athletes, at the same time they may contain harmful chemicals. Among the most common are:
- Bisphenol A (BPA): mostly known from plastic bottles and food packaging, BPA is also used in the production of sportswear, especially bras and shirts. The substance is an endocrine disruptor, which can lead to the development of heart disease, obesity, diabetes and even cancer.
- Phthalates: added to plastics to make them more flexible and durable, phthalates can adversely affect the endocrine system, fertility and child development.
- Azo dyes: used to dye textiles, some azo dyes can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation and, in extreme cases, even be carcinogenic.
- Formaldehyde: used to prevent crumpling of fabrics, formaldehyde can irritate the skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
- Pesticides: while they may seem like an unexpected ingredient in sportswear, pesticides are often used in cotton cultivation. Their presence in clothing can lead to skin irritation and allergies.
- Heavy metals: such as lead, cadmium and mercury, can be present in dyes and other chemicals used in clothing production. Heavy metals accumulate in the body and can cause serious health problems.
The way to the body
Harmful chemicals present in sportswear can enter the body in two ways:
- Through the skin: when wearing sports clothes, especially during intense exercise, when the skin is heated and sweaty, harmful substances can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream.
- By inhalation: volatile organic compounds, such as formaldehyde, can be released from clothing and absorbed through the respiratory tract.
Health consequences
Prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals present in sportswear can lead to many negative health effects, such as:
- Endocrine disruptors: BPA, phthalates and other endocrine disruptors can lead to fertility problems, obesity, diabetes, thyroid disease and even cancer.
- Skin allergies and irritation: azo dyes, formaldehyde and pesticides can cause allergic reactions, itching, redness, rashes and other skin problems.
- Respiratory problems: formaldehyde and other VOCs can irritate the airways, causing coughing, shortness of breath and even asthma.
- Neurological problems: some chemicals present in sportswear can negatively affect the nervous system, causing headaches, dizziness, concentration problems and memory impairment.
- Weakening the immune system: exposure to harmful chemicals can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to infection.
How to choose safe sportswear?
Awareness of the dangers of harmful chemicals in sportswear is the first step to protecting our health. When shopping, it is worth paying attention to several important aspects:
Material composition: the safest choice is clothing made of natural materials, such as organic cotton, linen, wool or bamboo. If you opt for synthetic materials, look for those recycled or labeled with safety certificates, such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Bluesign or GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard).
Country of origin: clothes from countries with strict regulations on the use of chemicals in textiles, such as the European Union, tend to be safer. Price: a price that is too low may indicate the use of cheaper, and therefore potentially more harmful, materials and dyes. Smell: if a garment has an intense, chemical smell, it may indicate the presence of harmful substances. Label: always check the label, which should include information about the material composition, country of origin and safety certificates. Also look for “BPA free” or “PFC free” symbols.
Additional tips
- Wash new sportswear before first use: this will remove excess dyes and chemicals.
- Avoid tumble drying sportswear: high temperatures can promote the release of harmful substances.
- Choose sportswear from reputable brands: which care about the quality and safety of their products and use environmentally friendly production technologies.
- If you are prone to allergies or skin irritation: pay close attention to material composition and safety certifications.
- Buy less, but better: instead of accumulating a large amount of cheap sportswear in your closet, invest in a few high-quality products made of natural materials.
- Take care of the environment: by choosing sportswear made of natural and biodegradable or recycled materials, you will contribute to protecting the environment.
Let’s remember that our health comes first! By choosing safe sportswear, we take care of our well-being and minimize the risk of health problems.
