Did you just get diagnosed with hemorrhoids? We got you.
Hemorrhoids can be extremely painful and uncomfortable. The burning, swelling and intense itching can make your everyday activities miserable. While many people suggest over-the-counter medications to give you instant relief, however, your diet plays a huge role in controlling the intensity of the symptoms. Experts at Jain Multispeciality Hospital suggest going for proper treatment if you have hemorrhoids but also keep a check on your diet so as to stop adding to the condition. Many foods that you consume daily can make your condition worse without you knowing. Foods that interrupt your digestion and bowel movement can also increase irritation, constipation and increase inflammation.
So, if you are going through a bad time due to flare-ups, there are a few foods to avoid with piles for long-term relaxation.
Most people don’t know it yet, but dairy products lack fiber and can add to your constipation condition. While dairy products are rich in calcium and protein, consuming them in large quantities can lead to harder stools and make bowel movements even more painful when already dealing with hemorrhoids.
Common dairy products to limit or avoid include:
So, if you rely on dairy products alone for calcium, consider switching to plant-based milk alternatives like oat or almond milk. These alternatives may be easier on your stomach.
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One of the major food items that you should avoid if you are going through hemorrhoids is refined flour. Refined flour like white flour has been stripped of its fibre-rich components, making it hard for your digestive system to function properly. Without following hemorrhoids’ high fiber diet, stools can become hard to pass, leading to strained bowel movement that causes anal irritation.
To reduce the risk of worsening symptoms, avoid foods made with refined flour, such as:
Instead, you can opt for whole-grain alternatives that are high in fiber which helps with smoother bowel movements and minimize irritation in the anal area.
You must have heard many people tell you that spicy foods increase the hemorrhoid condition. The fact is that while spicy foods don’t necessarily cause hemorrhoids, they can make existing symptoms worse. Capsaicin, a compound found in chilli peppers and spicy seasonings, is not easily and fully digested by the body. The time you try to exit it from your body, it causes a burning sensation, especially if you have hemorrhoids.
Additionally, many people with hemorrhoids also experience anal fissures, tiny tears in the anal canal, that can become even more painful when exposed to spicy food remnants.
While you should follow a hemorrhoids high fiber diet, avoid processed meats like hot dogs, deli meats and bacon are low in fiber and high in sodium and preservatives. If you consume a diet that is high in processed meats, it may contribute to constipation which makes hemorrhoids worse.
Some of the common processed meats to avoid include:
Instead, consider plant-based protein sources such as beans, lentils, and tofu, which provide both fiber and essential nutrients.
Fried and greasy foods are not only unhealthy for overall digestion but can also worsen hemorrhoids by slowing down digestion and leading to constipation. These foods tend to be low in fiber and high in unhealthy fats, which can disrupt gut health.
Foods to avoid include:
Instead, opt for baked, grilled, or steamed foods that are easier on your digestive system and promote better gut health.
Managing hemorrhoids isn’t just about treatments and creams, it’s also about making smart dietary choices. Avoiding these five food categories can help reduce irritation, prevent constipation, and promote healing. Instead, focus on a diet rich in fiber, including whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, while drinking plenty of water to keep things moving smoothly. While managing your diet, you can also get in touch with a team of professionals for consultation and best treatment of piles (Hemorrhoids) at Jain Multispeciality Hospital.
