High Levels of Toxic Chemical Found in Popular Sports Bras

According to a new study by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), sports bras sold by Athleta, PINK, Asics, The North Face, Brooks, All in Motion, Nike and FILA were recently tested for BPA and the results are bad for women who wear them.

High levels of BPA have been found in popular sports bras worn by women across the U.S. BPA has been used to make plastic and resins since the 1950s. According to MayoClinic.org, exposure to BPA is a concern to the health of adults and children.

Some research has shown that BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with BPA. Exposure to BPA is a concern because of the possible health effects on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. It can also affect children's behavior. Additional research suggests a possible link between BPA and increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. —MayoClinic.org

In the brand of sports bras mentioned above, high levels of BPA were found. Up to 22 times that deemed safe.

In addition to sports bras, CEH also tested athletic shirts from The North Face, Brooks, Mizuno, Athleta, New Balance, Reebok and more. The findings were almost the same as that of the sports bras.

Apparently, the high levels of BPA can be directly related to polyester-based clothing and spandex.

Studies have shown that BPA can be absorbed through skin and end up in the bloodstream after handling receipt paper for seconds or a few minutes at a time. Sports bras and athletic shirts are worn for hours at a time, and you are meant to sweat in them, so it is concerning to be finding such high levels of BPA in our clothing. —Kaya Allan Sugerman, CEH's Illegal Toxic Threats Program Director to CNN.com

CEH researchers suggest limiting the amount of time you spend in activewear.

(CNN, Center for Environmental Health, Mayo Clinic)