It's important to maintain a nutritious diet to fight symptoms of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids occur in your anus and lower rectum as inflamed and swollen veins. They may occur upon straining during bowel movements or pressure on your veins due to pregnancy or other complications. Symptoms include itching or irritation in your anus, swelling around your anus, leakage of feces, and pain or discomfort.
Foods Low In Fiber
Foods low in fiber may lead to constipation and straining. This can trigger and worsen symptoms of hemorrhoids. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fiber can help add bulk to your stool and soften them. This can ease bowel movements and relieve the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids. Low-fiber foods are those that have been stripped of their bran component. These include white bread, white rice and commercially prepared goods such as cookies, cakes, pies and muffins. MayoClinic.com suggests you eat foods high in fiber, such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal.
Alcohol
The University of Maryland Medical Center says a diet low in liquids can contribute to or aggravate symptoms of hemorrhoids. Alcohol can dehydrate your body and contribute to constipation and increased difficulty passing stool without straining. In order to prevent or reduce straining, consume liquids during the day that aren't dehydrating. MayoClinic.com recommends that you drink six to eight 8-oz. glasses of water per day to maintain proper hydration and reduce the pain of hemorrhoids.
Food Irritants
According to MayoClinic.com, some food chemicals in foods may contribute to anal itching. Anal itching is a common symptom of hemorrhoids. Potential food irritants include those found in spices, seasonings, hot sauces and other dressings. It's important to check ingredient labels to check for potential additives that may trigger or worsen symptoms of anal itching.
