External hemorrhoids can become inflamed quickly when you do not get enough fiber in your diet. Hemorrhoids exist when rectal veins increase in size, similar to varicose veins. The continued pressure of attempting to move stools out of your rectum can cause hemorrhoids to develop. A nutritious diet with the right foods will help you with digestion and prevent the formation of inflamed hemorrhoids.
Breakfast
Start your breakfast with water. Clemson University states that the average adult needs eight to 12 glasses of water each day for good health. Not only does water hydrate your body, it helps with digestion. Next, eat a cereal such as bran or another high-fiber cereal you enjoy. Select cereals you can tolerate every day, and mix them up to prevent boredom. Chop up a whole fruit such as an apple to add to the cereal. Use low-fat or skim milk to keep your fat intake lower at breakfast. By using fiber to help with digestion, you will have easier bowel movements and less hemorrhoid irritation.
Morning Snack
Eat a handful of almonds and a piece of fruit such as a pear or peach for a morning snack. By adding sufficient amounts of fruit and fiber, your digestion will improve. Remember to also drink two glasses of water before you eat your snack. The water will fill you up and again help with the digestion of your snack. Water and increased fiber will bulk and soften stools, making for easier bowel movements.
Lunch
Remember to start with two glasses of water. Treat yourself to fresh vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower with a low-calorie hummus dip. Try low-calorie soup for lunch, and watch out for high levels of sodium. High salt intake may reduce the amount of fluid in your stools, causing constipation and straining. These both can lead to hemorrhoids. Water will help your bowel movement to pass easier and without hemorrhoid irritation.
Dinner
Begin with your two glasses of water. One dinner idea is chunks of chicken on skewers with pepper slices and pineapple. Add a handful of diced almonds to fresh cooked green beans. The almonds will add fiber to your diet, which will enhance your bowel movements so you avoid hemorrhoid irritation.
Snack
A small bowl of bran cereal with raisins before bed will help put more fiber into your intestines for digestion. You have already consumed your water for the day, so avoid drinking water just before bed to help you stay asleep through the night.
