For people with health concerns related to their gastrointestinal tract — like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Chron’s, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — the digestion process isn’t always easy or clear-cut. Bloating, acid reflux, and heartburn are common symptoms when you have digestion issues, and wearing tight underwear can just make things worse.
In fact, one of the things you shouldn’t do if you have IBS is wear tight clothing, especially when you’re experiencing a flare, per a physician specializing in chronic gastro conditions at Salvo Health, Dr. Erin Hendriks (via PopSugar). “People who suffer from chronic gastrointestinal conditions like IBS often have good days and bad days … if you are already experiencing bloating or abdominal discomfort,” tight clothes aren’t going to make anything better, explained the expert.
A good rule of thumb is to check if the undergarments you wear are leaving marks on your skin. If they are, they’re probably too tight for you.