If you’re like me, you live in yoga leggings. They’re comfy, stretchy, and perfect for workouts or lounging. But did you know that most leggings—yes, even the ones from your favorite high-end yoga brands like Lululemon and Alo Yoga—are made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex?
These fabrics may feel and look soft and stylish, but they come with a hidden cost: microplastics. And according to new research, ingesting these tiny plastic particles could be seriously harming our health. Let’s dive into the details and talk about a better, healthier alternative—natural fabric clothing, like cotton.
The Shocking Truth About Synthetic Fabrics
A recent review of nearly 3,000 studies, published in Environmental Science & Technology, found that airborne microplastics are linked to digestive, respiratory, and fertility issues.
Here’s what the research uncovered:
Microplastics may contribute to colon cancer
They could be harming fertility in both men and women
They worsen lung function and may increase the risk of lung cancer
So what does this have to do with your leggings? Microplastics shed from clothing, particularly synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic, can enter the body through skin contact, particularly when the clothing is tight-fitting or worn during activities that cause sweating.
Where Are Microplastics Coming From?
Microplastics are everywhere—from cosmetics to food to textiles. The world produces about 460 million metric tons of plastic each year, and that number is expected to nearly triple by 2060. The biggest sources of airborne microplastics include:
Synthetic clothing (yes, including your yoga leggings!)
Car tires breaking down as we drive
Wildfire smoke from burning plastic-based materials
Sea spray carrying plastic from polluted oceans into the air
Landfills full of plastic textiles breaking down over time
In short, our environment is loaded with microplastics, and our clothes are a major part of the problem.
The Case for Cotton and Natural Fibers
So, what can we do about it? One of the simplest solutions is switching to clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, linen, hemp, and wool. Unlike synthetic fabrics, these materials don’t shed microplastics into the air. They’re also breathable, biodegradable, and free from toxic chemical coatings.
When you wear cotton leggings instead of polyester ones, you’re reducing your exposure to microplastics—and helping to prevent the health issues researchers are now linking to plastic fibers. Plus, cotton is way more comfortable and better for your skin. It lets your body breathe, reduces irritation, and doesn’t trap heat and moisture like polyester does.
Make the Switch to Healthier Clothing
If you’re serious about your health, your wardrobe should reflect that. Here’s how you can start making the switch to natural fabrics:
Check the labels – Look for leggings, tops, and underwear made from at least 95% natural fibers like cotton or hemp.
Invest in high-quality cotton leggings – These are just as soft and stretchy as synthetic ones, minus the plastic.
Wash less frequently – Washing synthetic clothes releases microplastics into the water supply. Reducing wash cycles can minimize shedding.
Air-dry your clothes – This helps avoid additional wear and tear that can cause more microplastic shedding.
Spread awareness – The more people know about this issue, the bigger impact we can make together.
Final Thoughts
Switching to cotton and other natural fabrics isn’t just about fashion—it’s about your health. The science is clear: microplastics from synthetic clothing are ending up in our lungs, digestive systems, and even our reproductive organs.
If we care about our wellness, it’s time to rethink what we wear every day. Your yoga practice is about connecting with your body—why not dress in a way that truly supports your health?
Are you ready to make the switch? Let me know in the comments what you think about this issue and if you’ve tried cotton leggings yet!
The Wellness-Conscious Alternative: NATURRE Eco Fashion
As a yoga teacher and holistic wellness advocate, I knew I couldn’t keep wearing toxic fabrics that went against everything I believe in. That’s why I created NATURRE — an eco-friendly fashion boutique designed for women’s health, comfort, and well-being.
Our black cotton leggings are made with 95% breathable cotton, offering a more skin-friendly, non-toxic alternative to synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex. Less PFAS, less harmful chemicals — more pure, comfortable, natural fabric that moves with your body.
And this is just the beginning! We’re rolling out new pieces and new fabrics like cashmere, silk and wool.
All designed with natural fiber fabrics to help you reduce exposure to toxins while feeling amazing in your clothes.
More Than Fashion: Supporting Women’s Wellness
At NATURRE, we believe in giving back. That’s why 10% of all proceeds support The Women’s Mindfulness Collective, a nonprofit community for women focused on mindfulness, conscious living, and personal growth. When you shop NATURRE, you’re not just choosing better clothing — you’re supporting a movement.
It’s Time to Ditch the Toxins
You deserve activewear that’s healthy, breathable, and truly wellness-focused. If you’re ready to make the switch to non-toxic, sustainable fashion, shop NATURRE leggings today and take the first step toward a healthier, more conscious lifestyle.
Let’s move, breathe, and live a more toxin-free life together.
Resource: https://www.health.com/breathing-in-microplastics-cancer-infertility-8764745?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Written by Ashlee Sunshine
Founder of NATURRE and Sunshine Paradise Retreat
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