Why Waist Trainers Are Really Bad For Your Health

Most women are perpetually in pursuit of a slimmer waist. While many of us are willing to make the necessary changes in our diet and whittle away at the gym, wearing a waist trainer is a popular trend. Back in the day, these were called girdles. And way, way back in the day, they were called corsets.

So what's up with the renewed interest in "waist training?"

Perhaps Kim Kardashian is to blame since interest in the constricting body-shaping technique peaked after she started posting photos of herself wearing a waist trainer on Instagram. And PreMadonna, the creator of Kim K's coveted corsets, has attracted even more Waist Gang Society converts thanks to her appearances on Season 4 of Love & Hip-Hop Atlanta.

But women should think twice before they wear a waist trainer.

According to Yahoo! Health, although wearing the compression garment for a short amount of time is usually harmless, it can cause fainting, acid reflux and indigestion because of the pressure it puts on your stomach. There are also more serious reports of spinal injuries and reproductive issues.

While waist trainers may look sexy and give you the hourglass figure affect, medical experts also say that wearing the corset actually doesn't help women lose fat around their waists or promote long-term weight loss. In fact, critics say that once you stop wearing the constricting waist cincher, your tummy will look just as flabu-lous as it did before you started wearing one. Ouch!

So if you want a svelte stomach, skip the shortcuts. Instead, find a workout routine you enjoy and modify your diet (cutting processed foods and refined sugar products is a great way to start). It may take longer, but the results will last and your body will thank you for it.

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