In recent discussions surrounding health and wellness, Dr. Rhonda Patrick has raised significant concerns about the risks posed by microplastics and their presence in everyday items, particularly workout clothing. As someone deeply committed to improving public health and safety, Dr. Patrick emphasizes how careful choices in our clothing—especially when engaging in high-intensity workouts—can help reduce harmful exposure to chemicals such as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), BPA, and other endocrine disruptors.
The Risks in Your Workout Gear
Workout clothes, especially those made from synthetic materials like polyester, spandex, and rayon, are often designed for performance, prioritizing moisture-wicking properties and flexibility. However, these fabrics come with a hidden downside. According to Dr. Patrick, the combination of sweat and friction during exercise can accelerate the release of microplastics and chemicals like PFAS, which are commonly used to make fabrics water-resistant. These chemicals, referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and in human bodies, accumulate over time and can remain in the body for two to five years, leading to long-term health risks.
Dr. Patrick shares her personal shift away from synthetic activewear in favor of cotton alternatives, explaining, “I’ve now sort of moved toward more cotton shirts… I’m not going to change all of my fashion, but I certainly have decided that I’m not going to buy a lot of the active wear clothing.” She highlights that cotton can serve as a viable alternative, especially when exercising, while reducing chemical exposure during activities that induce sweating.
Though Dr. Patrick acknowledges that completely eliminating synthetic clothing may be challenging, especially for those who rely on high-performance fabrics, she suggests that switching to cotton workout clothes is a practical first step for those wanting to minimize their microplastic exposure.
Broader Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Chemical Exposure
While clothing is a notable concern, Dr. Patrick points out that the largest exposure to microplastics and their harmful chemicals comes from consumption and inhalation. The microplastics in our water, food containers, and even the air we breathe have been linked to a range of health issues, including hormonal imbalances and reproductive problems. Dr. Patrick recommends making broader lifestyle changes, such as using water filtration systems, avoiding plastic food containers, and steering clear of products that contain synthetic fragrances and preservatives.
In her own home, Dr. Patrick has invested in a Crystal Quest reverse osmosis water filtration system to ensure the water she consumes is free from microplastics and chemicals like PFAS, BPA, and phthalates. She stresses the importance of staying informed and taking control of what enters our bodies—starting with the water we drink and the clothing we wear.
The Connection to Endocrine Disruptors and Health Risks
Dr. Shanna Swan, an expert on endocrine disruptors, also raises concerns about the chemicals in workout wear, particularly regarding their potential effects on hormonal health. In a discussion with Dr. Andrew Huberman, Dr. Swan revealed that workout clothes, especially those made from synthetic fabrics, often contain chemicals that can leach into the body through sweat. This is particularly worrying when considering that many of these chemicals are known to disrupt the endocrine system, potentially leading to conditions like infertility, early puberty, and other hormone-related issues.
In fact, in 2023, the Centers for Environmental Health (CEH) found that several major athletic brands, including Nike, Patagonia, and Adidas, had elevated levels of BPA in their clothing, surpassing California’s legal limits. BPA, an industrial chemical, is frequently used in plastics and resins, and exposure to it has been linked to serious health conditions like cardiovascular disease and infertility.
“There’s a lot of particularly in workout wear because you’re absorbing so much… you’re sweaty, you’re hot, and you’re bringing these chemicals into your body,” Dr. Swan explains. The focus here is on the potential for synthetic fabrics, like polyester and spandex, to leach BPA and other chemicals into the body when exposed to heat and friction during exercise.
Other Household Changes to Consider
Dr. Swan’s advice extends far beyond workout wear, urging individuals to scrutinize all products that may contribute to exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals. She recommends avoiding fragranced personal care products, such as lotions, soaps, and perfumes, as these often contain phthalates, another group of harmful chemicals. “Don’t use any product with fragrance,” she advises, stressing that even essential oils may contain mixed chemicals that could pose a risk.
Additionally, Dr. Swan suggests replacing plastic food storage containers with alternatives like glass or stainless steel, avoiding non-stick cookware, and opting for organic produce whenever possible. By making these simple changes, individuals can significantly reduce their exposure to endocrine disruptors and protect their health.
Dr. Swan also encourages taking proactive steps to prevent tracking chemicals into the home. For example, removing shoes before entering the house can help limit the spread of contaminants from outside. Small adjustments like these can add up over time, contributing to a healthier environment and a reduction in overall chemical exposure.
Protecting Your Health
Both Dr. Patrick and Dr. Swan offer valuable insights into the importance of being mindful of the products we use, from workout clothing to food storage solutions, as part of a larger strategy to minimize harmful chemical exposure. While it may not be possible to completely eliminate all sources of microplastics and endocrine disruptors from our lives, being aware of their presence and making small, intentional changes can significantly reduce health risks.
Next time you gear up for a workout, consider reaching for cotton instead of synthetic fabrics. Choose glass over plastic and be selective about the food you consume. By carefully choosing the products we bring into our homes and onto our bodies, we can take steps toward a healthier, safer lifestyle, reducing our exposure to microplastics and harmful chemicals one choice at a time.
