Hemorrhoids result when veins around the anus and/or rectum become inflamed or swollen. While hemorrhoids are rarely a serious condition, they can be painful, itchy and result in anal bleeding. Hemorrhoids are caused by a number of factors, including after an episode of diarrhea, straining during bowel movements or after sitting on the toilet for long time periods. Fiber, however, does not cause hemorrhoids--instead, eating fiber is a method of preventing hemorrhoids.
Misconception
Hemorrhoids and fiber intake are associated with each other because the body uses fiber to move digested food throughout the body. Fiber adds bulk to your stool and attracts water, making it easier to move. A common misconception is that eating too much fiber causes you to experience more hemorrhoids. Because fiber contributes to your bowel movements, a common misconception is that too much fiber causes difficult or excess bowel movements. However, the opposite is true.
Fiber Benefits
Instead of causing hemorrhoids, eating fiber helps to prevent hemorrhoids. A low-fiber diet is associated with increased risk for developing hemorrhoids. This is because fiber intake helps making a bowel movement easier, not more difficult. Those who experience trouble with bowel movements like constipation or irregular stools are advised to take or eat fiber to make bowel movements easier.
How It Works
Two types of fiber exist: insoluble and soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is the kind that helps to prevent hemorrhoids. This is because insoluble fiber helps to combine with food in the digestive system, adding bulk. Soluble fiber differs because it dissolves in water, making a gel-like paste that moves through the body and slows digestion, making you feel fuller, longer. Insoluble fiber examples include whole-wheat bread, wheat bran, nuts, and vegetables like broccoli and asparagus. This fiber contains cellulose, lignin or hemicellulose, which are substances that the body cannot break down.
Considerations
Increasing your fiber intake too quickly can cause gas and cramping in the stomach. If you do not currently take in enough fiber, you may be at risk for experiencing hemorrhoids--but increase your fiber intake slowly. Females ages 19 to 50 years should consume 25 g of fiber per day, while males should consume 38 g of fiber per day. Drinking plenty of water while you increase your fiber intake can reduce adverse symptoms.
References
- Health Services at Columbia; Go Ask Alice!; Could It Be...Hemorrhoids?; December 2009
- Harvard Health Publications; Hemorrhoids and What to Do About Them; July 2004
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Hemorrhoids; November 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet; November 2009
