Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum or anus that cause anal itching, bleeding and pain during bowel movements, and tender lumps near the anus. The condition is common during pregnancy and childbirth due to increased pressure on the anal veins. Constipation, liver cirrhosis, prolonged sitting and anal infections can also cause hemorrhoids. Over the counter creams, warm baths and stool softeners can provide relief. Severe cases may require infrared coagulation treatment and surgery. Including certain foods in your diet may help treat and manage hemorrhoids naturally.
High-Fiber Foods
The National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse recommends 25 g of fiber per day for women and 38 g of fiber per day for men to manage and prevent hemorrhoids. The high amounts of fiber in the diet can also help soften the stool and prevent constipation-related hemorrhoids. Whole grains such as bran and oats, legumes such as black beans and kidney beans, and fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, sweet potatoes and peas are good sources of fiber and should regularly be included in your diet. However, large amounts of fiber-rich foods in a short amount of time can cause intestinal gas and bloating. It's best, therefore, to gradually increase your fiber intake.
Fruits and Vegetables
Steaming a whole organic banana, with skin, until soft and eating one organic banana, with skin, twice a day on an empty stomach can provide relief from hemorrhoids, claims Paul Pitchford, author of the book "Healing With Whole Foods." Foods such as berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers and cantaloupes are rich sources of vitamin C and bioflavonoids, which act together to strengthen the walls of capillaries and help prevent hemorrhoids. Vitamin C and bioflavonoids obtained from dietary sources do not cause any side effects. Synthetic vitamin C supplements,however, can cause stomach upset and diarrhea and should not be used without consulting a physician.
Fluids
Six to eight glasses of water and other fluids a day can help to soften the stool and reduce the stress on rectal veins. It is, however, best to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks as they may lead to dehydration. Drinking excessive fluids can sometimes cause nausea and discomfort, but is otherwise safe.
Probiotics
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, probiotics, or friendly bacteria, such as lactobacillus and bifidus may help prevent hemorrhoids. This can be attributed to probiotics' ability to help maintain a normal balance of the vaginal and anal flora and prevent infections that may cause hemorrhoids. Probiotics are generally safe to use, although mild side effects such as gas and bloating may occur. Talk to your doctor if you experience any discomfort due to the use of probiotics.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hemorrhoids
- "Healing With Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition"; Paul Pitchford; 2003
- Vitamin C & Bioflavonoids; Gene Bruno, MS, MHS; 2002
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Hemorrhoids
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hemorrhoids
