apparel company uses nasa spacesuit technology to make clothes for hot flashes
company fifty one apparel uses high-tech fabric that was first designed to keep astronauts comfortable inside their spacesuits and turns it into clothing that cools the symptoms of menopause.
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while nasa’s space gear is constantly evolving, systems that regulate body temperature are a necessity in extreme conditions. (nasa/afp/getty images)
the same self-regulating materials that keep astronauts from exploding in space are now being used in clothing to reduce hot flashes in women during menopause, according to popular science.
the london-based company fifty one apparel has a novel approach to making women feel more comfortable in their all-purpose fashions made for lounging, the gym, the office — and intergalactic travel if needed. the company, named after the average age people experience menopause, turns high-tech fabric that was first designed to help keep astronauts comfortable inside their spacesuits into clothing that “put the freeze on hot flushes,” according to the brand’s website. instead of wicking away sweat, the clothes actually keep your body temperature stable and control the production of moisture before it starts.
while nasa’s space gear is constantly evolving, systems that regulate body temperature are a necessity in extreme conditions. fifty one apparel uses a technology first incorporated by nasa into spacesuit gloves, says popular science. outlast thermo-technology, later trademarked and produced by outlast technologies in boulder, colorado, was designated as a certified space technology by the space foundation in 2003 and inducted into the space technology hall of fame in 2005.
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outlast produces thermocules, a specialized wax that is put into microcapsules and embedded into fabric and other fibres. depending on the environment, the materials work to absorb and release heat so when your body starts cooling down after a hot flash, for example, the smart tech keeps you consistently comfortable.
the clothes from fifty one apparel is made by bonding the thermocules to cellulosic yarn, created from plant-based fibres. on top of the temp-regulating comfort, the aim is to make the clothes super lightweight and also easy-to-clean, says popular science. the plan is to expand the brand’s reach throughout the u.s.
outlast thermocules are also found in outdoor performance apparel, footwear, bedding, furniture and medical products like support bandages and linings for orthotic and prosthetic devices. so you might have a little of that astronaut advantage here on earth, without even realizing it.
menopause linked to heart disease
menopause happens approximately 12 months after your last period — during this time, your hormones start changing and you may experience hot flashes and cold sweats. both of which can be debilitating — and dangerous for your health.
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a 2017 study in menopause, the journal of the north american menopause society (nams), found that frequent hot flashes, one of the most common symptoms of menopause, can signal vascular problems for women aged 40 to 53, that put them at higher risk of heart disease.
and while medications and hormone therapy are treatment options, lifestyle changes can also help relieve symptoms of menopause, according to the mayo clinic. keeping cool is one intervention, whether it’s ensuring air flow with a fan or an open window, sipping a cold beverage — or wearing clothing in layers so you can remove them when you feel warm.
karen hawthorne is a toronto-based writer.
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