Hemorrhoids are enlarged and swollen varicose veins, which can develop internally or externally around the anus or in the rectum. Hemorrhoids can occur from straining during bowel movements, sitting or standing for long periods of time, pregnancy, obesity, lack of exercise, poor diet, and chronic constipation or diarrhea. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that about 75 percent of Americans experience hemorrhoids at some point. Hemorrhoids usually go away within a few days.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching, burning, inflammation and pain or bleeding around the anus. Bright red blood may appear on stools, in the toilet or on toilet paper during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids can cause a hard, painful lump at the opening of the anus. Internal hemorrhoids can be painless, but tend to bleed. A prolapsed hemorrhoid is when an internal hemorrhoid protrudes outside the anus, causing mucous or heavy bleeding to occur. A doctor performs a physical exam to determine a hemorrhoid diagnosis.
Fiber
A high-fiber diet can soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements. Dietary fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Fiber is not digested by the body, which helps to normalize bowel movements. Increase fiber in the diet to between 25 and 35 grams daily to reduce the occurrence of hemorrhoids. For pre-packages foods, look for products that contain five or more grams of fiber per serving. Swap out white flour products such as white bread, white pasta and white rice for whole wheat, multi-grain and brown rice options. Add beans to salad or soup, have fruit as a snack, and eat a vegetable with every meal to increase daily fiber intake. Adding flax seeds to yogurt, oatmeal or cereal can help soften stools. When increasing fiber, drink six to eight glasses of water daily to prevent constipation.
Probiotic Foods
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that increasing probiotics in the diet can help treat and prevent the occurrence of hemorrhoids. Probiotics increase healthy bacteria in the intestines, which may prevent constipation or diarrhea. Probiotics are found in yogurt, miso, fermented dairy products, tempeh, and fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut.
Foods to Avoid
To decrease swelling and occurrence of hemorrhoids avoid coffee, alcohol and spicy food, which can aggravate hemorrhoids. High-fat foods such as fried food, red meat and dairy products may increase symptoms and should be limited.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Fifth Edition"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders: Hemorrhoids
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hemorrhoids
- MayoClinic.com: Dietary fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet
- MayoClinic.com: Is it Important to Include Probiotics in a Healthy Diet?; Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.; April 2010
