Hemorrhoids occur as swollen veins in your lower rectum and anus. They may result upon straining during bowel movements or pressure on your veins during pregnancy. The symptoms of hemorrhoids include bleeding, itching, and general discomfort. You can relieve these symptoms through lifestyle changes and treatments at home. Avoiding certain foods may be helpful in order to reduce or control your hemorrhoid symptoms.
Refined Grains
Foods low in fiber may lead to the incidence of hemorrhoids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fiber can increase the bulk of your stool and also soften it. This can help you avoid the straining that contributes to the development of hemorrhoids or worsens their symptoms. Low-fiber foods are those that have been stripped of their bran component. These foods include refined grains such as white bread, white rice, and commercially-baked goods such as cookies, pies and cakes. MayoClinic.com advises that you eat high-fiber grains if you suffer from hemorrhoids. These include whole-grain sources such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice and oatmeal. Other good sources include fruits and vegetables.
Alcohol
Not consuming enough fluids may lead to or trigger hemorrhoids, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. MayoClinic.com recommends that you avoid alcohol to reduce or manage your symptoms. Alcohol can dehydrate your body and dehydration can cause the straining of bowel movements to be uncomfortable. Straining can cause increased pressure in your lower rectum, contributing to hemorrhoid symptoms. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water per day is a good choice, MayoClinic.com advises.
Other Low-Fiber Foods
In addition to refined grains, many other foods are low fiber and should be limited in your diet. By restricting low-fiber foods, you can consume more high-fiber foods that can relieve the symptoms of constipation and straining associated with hemorrhoids. Other low-fiber foods include fruit without the skin, meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. You may need to limit or reduce your consumption of these foods as you monitor your symptoms.
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