About 75 percent of the population will eventually experience hemorrhoids, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. While hemorrhoids can stem from a wide range of causes, your diet can have an impact on their formation and duration. Fortunately, most hemorrhoids can be treated at home using dietary and lifestyle changes.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids develop when blood vessels of the anus or rectum become swollen and inflamed. They can be internal or external and may be extremely painful or itchy. Chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining when passing stool, sitting for long periods of time and eating a diet low in fiber can all contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Pregnant women and people over 45 are more likely to develop hemorrhoids.
Fiber
A diet high in fiber can help relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids and might prevent them from developing. High-fiber foods include oatmeal, beans, whole-grain bread, vegetables and fruits. Fiber works by bulking up and softening stool, making it easier for the stool to pass through the rectum and anus and less likely to put pressure on sensitive blood vessels. Fiber is also available as a supplement, often in the form of psyllium husks or methylcellulose.
Water
Water consumption can be a factor in hemorrhoid prevention and treatment. If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, you should consume a minimum of eight glasses of water per day. Adequate fluid intake helps prevent constipation or digestive tract problems that could irritate the anal lining and cause hemorrhoids. Most other fluids are also acceptable in place of water, but you shouldn't count alcoholic beverages as part of your total fluid intake.
What to Avoid
If you have a history of hemorrhoids, it's a good idea to avoid foods that cause constipation. These include fried and fatty foods, refined carbohydrates and foods with added sugars. If you do include some of these foods in your diet, you should also make sure you get enough fiber to counteract their effect. Don't use laxatives other than bulk-forming laxatives, since these can cause diarrhea that worsens hemorrhoids and can harm the intestines if used for long periods of time.
Alternatives
Other lifestyle changes beyond diet might also help relieve the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids. Take warm baths twice a day for 10 to 15 minutes at a time to reduce hemorrhoid swelling. After every bowel movement, clean the anus with a wet tissue or baby wipes. Avoid scented toilet tissue. Don't sit for long periods of time, and avoid straining when having a bowel movement. If hemorrhoids continue to be a problem, talk to your doctor about topical medication or surgery.
