Hemorrhoids (piles) are inflamed and swollen veins in your anus and lower rectum. They are often due to prolonged constipation and straining during bowel movements. They occur equally in men and women. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable to hemorrhoids because hormonal changes and the weight of the fetus on the stomach may cause hemorrhoidal vessels to expand.
Hemorrhoids can occur internally (close to the start of the anal canal) or externally (the outer surface of the anus).
The common symptoms of hemorrhoids are pain, itching and bleeding. A number of remedies are available to help relieve the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. There are also several low-fiber foods to steer clear from if you have hemorrhoids.
Processed Foods
Processed foods tend to be high in animal fat and low in fiber. They may play a significant part in the development of hemorrhoids because they lack the roughage needed for stools to pass easily through the intestine.This can lead to strained bowel movements.
Avoiding canned food items, prepackaged frozen or boxed dinners and fast food can help prevent hemorrhoids from getting worse or from developing piles in the first place.
Highly Refined Foods
Heavily refined foods such as white bread, pastries, prepackaged cakes, cookies, sugary cereals and white rice don't easily digest because they generally contain little, if any, dietary fiber. This may lead to constipation and strained bowel movements that can result in hemorrhoids.
Fiber helps produce soft, painless bowel movements. Foods that are high in fiber include nuts, beans, whole-grain breads and cereal, and fruits and vegetables.
Caffeine and Alcohol
People with hemorrhoids should reduce or eliminate their intake of both caffeine and alcohol. These substances diminish the water supply in the body and can lead to small, dry stools that may place undue stress on the anal area during bowel movements.
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