Denver Air: Are Your Yoga Pants Harming Your Lungs?
By Franklin Everett ShawEver wonder what your yoga pants are really doing while you’re crushing that high-altitude workout in Denver? It’s not just wicking away sweat. They might be shedding microplastics, and Denver’s unique environment could be making the problem worse.
Let’s dive into the surprisingly complex world of microplastic shedding, specifically from yoga pants, and how it might be impacting the respiratory health of active Denverites.
Yoga pants, often made from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, are notorious for shedding microplastics. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5mm in size, break off during wear and washing.
Think about it: you’re in Denver, 5,280 feet above sea level, pushing your limits in a spin class or hiking Red Rocks. Your yoga pants are stretching, rubbing, and generally enduring a lot of friction. This friction accelerates microplastic shedding.
But here’s the kicker: Denver’s thin, dry air could be exacerbating the problem. The lower air pressure means these microplastics can become airborne more easily. The dryness means they’re less likely to clump together and fall to the ground.
So, you’re breathing harder during your workout, inhaling more air, and potentially, more microplastics. Is this a real threat to your lungs?
I spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a pulmonologist at Denver Health, about the potential risks. “While research is still emerging, we know that inhaling particulate matter can irritate the respiratory system,” she explained. “In Denver, we already see higher rates of respiratory issues due to the altitude and air quality. Adding microplastics into the mix is a concern.”
Dr. Carter emphasized that the long-term effects of inhaling microplastics are still unknown. However, she pointed to studies linking particulate matter exposure to increased risk of asthma, bronchitis, and even cardiovascular problems.
“The smaller the particle, the deeper it can penetrate into the lungs,” she added. “Microplastics are certainly small enough to reach the lower respiratory tract.”
But what’s the actual evidence that yoga pants are contributing to this problem in Denver?
I reached out to Dr. Ben Miller, a material scientist at the Colorado School of Mines, who has been studying microplastic shedding from textiles. “We’ve found that certain types of yoga pants, particularly those with a tighter weave and higher synthetic content, shed significantly more microplastics,” Dr. Miller stated.
He explained that the shedding rate is also influenced by the washing machine and drying methods used. “Front-loading washing machines tend to be gentler on fabrics than top-loading machines with agitators,” he said. “And air-drying is always preferable to using a dryer, which generates a lot of friction and heat.”
Dr. Miller’s research also suggests that the type of activity matters. High-intensity workouts, like running or CrossFit, cause more friction and therefore more shedding.
So, what can Denver residents do to mitigate this potential risk? It’s not about ditching your yoga pants altogether. It’s about making informed choices and adopting preventative measures.
Here are some actionable steps you can take:
- Choose natural fibers: Opt for yoga pants made from organic cotton, bamboo, or merino wool. These materials are less likely to shed microplastics.
- Wash less frequently: Only wash your yoga pants when they’re truly dirty. Over-washing accelerates wear and tear and increases shedding.
- Use a front-loading washing machine: If possible, switch to a front-loading machine. They’re gentler on fabrics.
- Use a laundry bag: Invest in a microplastic filter bag, like a Guppyfriend washing bag, to capture microplastics during washing.
- Air-dry your clothes: Avoid using the dryer whenever possible.
- Consider a microplastic filter for your washing machine: These filters can be installed on your washing machine to capture microplastics before they enter the wastewater system.
- Workout outdoors during off-peak hours: If you’re concerned about air quality, avoid exercising outdoors during peak traffic hours when pollution levels are higher.
- Invest in an air purifier: Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home to remove particulate matter from the air.
Let’s consider a specific scenario: Sarah, a Denver resident, loves to hike the Manitou Incline in her favorite pair of Lululemon leggings. She washes them after every hike.
By switching to a pair of organic cotton leggings, washing them less frequently, using a Guppyfriend bag, and air-drying them, Sarah can significantly reduce the amount of microplastics she’s releasing into the environment and potentially inhaling.
The challenge is that many people are unaware of this issue. They’re not thinking about the potential health risks associated with microplastic shedding.
Another pitfall is the misconception that all yoga pants are created equal. Some brands and materials are far more prone to shedding than others.
It’s also important to acknowledge that this is a complex issue with no easy solutions. Microplastics are everywhere, not just in our yoga pants. They’re in our food, our water, and our air.
However, by taking these small, practical steps, Denver residents can reduce their exposure to microplastics and protect their respiratory health. It’s about being mindful of our choices and making informed decisions that benefit both our bodies and the environment.
The thin air and active lifestyle of Denver present a unique challenge when it comes to microplastic inhalation. By understanding the risks and taking preventative measures, we can breathe a little easier, knowing we’re doing our part to protect our lungs and our planet.