1. Follow a Fiber-Rich Diet
Eating foods that are high in fiber can help prevent many gastrointestinal problems that can lead to bloody stools, including ulcers, hemorrhoids and colon cancer. Choose a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as dark, leafy greens; strawberries; apples with the skin on; and sweet potatoes. Replace white bread, rice and pasta with whole- or multi-grain versions that are readily available at your supermarket. Drink lots of water and non-caffeinated drinks to reduce your risk of becoming constipated, because constipation can often lead to painful hemorrhoids. Limit your intake of alcohol to one or two drinks daily to prevent stomach-lining irritation that can lead to more serious problems, including bloody stools.
2. Limit Your Use of Pain Relievers
Try not to use non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen any more than is absolutely necessary. This class of drugs, even at over-the-counter strengths, can cause ulcers when used heavily. If you find you are relying on pain relievers on a regular basis, speak to your doctor about this issue.
3. Quit Smoking
Nicotine has been shown to make your stomach acids more concentrated and possibly cause ulcers. If you find it difficult to quit smoking on your own, use one of the many patch and gum products on the market, or ask your doctor for advice.
4. Manage Your Stress
Reduce the amount of stress in your life, it at all possible. High levels of stress may be a factor in the development of ulcers. Manage your stress by exercising, taking a long warm bath or talking to a friend. Consult your doctor if you find yourself stressed out all the time and not feeling well. He can refer you to a mental-heath professional for talk therapy, if necessary.
5. Get Screened for Colon Cancer
If you have a family history of irritable bowel disease, cancer or are over 50 years old, get screened for colon cancer, a condition that can manifest itself through bloody stools. There are several tests that can detect colon cancer early on, including a flexible sigmoidoscopy, barium enema and colonoscopy.
