Bariatric clothing

It has become easier to buy plus-size or bariatric clothing in recent years.

Some retail outlets and more online suppliers now offer clothing up to a women’s size 30 or 32. At the lower end of the bariatric clothing ranges, familiar high street stores routinely produce clothes in sizes above 20.

For men, it is a similar situation, with online and high street retailers providing a range for those requiring size extra large and above. For guidance, men’s sizing would range from 81-178cm waist, 86-178cm chest, and 37-59cm collar.

Illness and medical treatments can lead to weight gain

It isn’t often highlighted, but increasing weight can be a consequence of a number of medical conditions.

For example, an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism will slow the body’s metabolism, leading to an increase in weight. Polycystic ovary syndrome and Cushing’s syndrome are two other physical conditions where weight gain is common, often in the stomach and waist area.

Lymphoedema causes long-term swelling of the legs, when fluid builds up due to a blockage in the lymphatic system. The swelling is accompanied by discomfort or pain, and leads to loss of mobility – which again can trigger additional weight if less physical activity isn’t matched by less food eaten.

Taking steroids in the long term to treat conditions including asthma and arthritis can lead to weight gain, as it increases appetite.

Ironically, treatment for diabetes, which is often itself a consequence of obesity, can compound overweight issues. Insulin, which helps maintain blood sugar levels, can increase weight. People with diabetes can get into the habit of excessive snacking, in order to avoid low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia.
 
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What to consider in bariatric clothing?

Excess weight is often accompanied by painful or itchy, dry and sensitive skin.

Clothing should be soft and non-constricting, without tight elastic or uncomfortable seams that rub. This is particularly important for underwear and socks or tights.

At the same time, they need to be properly supportive, and not liable to slip.

As well as comfort, fit is an important issue. It is more likely that clothing will be designed specifically to fit the larger body if it is manufactured by a specialist company, rather than added on at the top of a standard range.
 
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