A common condition suffered by many, hemorrhoids (also known as ‘piles’), is an uncomfortable condition that causes the veins in the anus and rectum to swell up.
It can happen to people of all ages, sex, and backgrounds. A mild case of hemorrhoids is no cause of medical concern and can be treated at home with OTC medication.[1]
Here are some dietary tips to help with hemorrhoids.
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Increase Fiber Intake[2]
Constipation is one of the main causes of hemorrhoids hence, increasing your fiber intake is essential.[3] Fiber helps soften stools, making them easier to pass which can reduce straining during bowel movements.You get fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.[4]
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Stay Hydrated[5]
There is no underestimating the power of simply drinking water. A healthy recommendation for many ailments, drinking plenty of water and fluids can help soften your stools. Try drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water per day.Other fluids like herbal tea or coconut water also help.
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Avoid Spicy Food[6]
Spicy food can actually irritate hemorrhoids and make the condition much worse. Avoid foods that are too hot, spicy, or acidic.Go for milder options in foods like oatmeal, rice, and boiled vegetables.
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Cut Down Processed Foods[7]
Loaded with contents of unhealthy fats and preservatives, processed foods are best avoided if you’ve got hemorrhoids. They make the condition worse by causing more inflammation.Eat fresh foods instead and avoid fast food/junk food.
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Consume Probiotics[8]
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut and help keep your digestive system healthy. They also help reduce inflammation and improve bowel movements.Find them in foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
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Include Flavonoids[9]
Flavonoids are compounds found in fruits and vegetables that have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help enhance vein function, soothe capillary permeability, and increase lymphatic drainage. In simpler words, it helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with hemorrhoids.Berries, citrus fruits, dark chocolate, and onions include flavonoids.
If you feel you need quick relief, remember that Hemorrhoids can also be treated with over-the-counter medication like Hemovel®, a simple, mess-free oral pill which is easy to administer. Hemovel® is an effective, convenient way to treat internal and external hemorrhoids and relieve pain, swelling and bleeding.
Hemovel® is a 7-day treatment: 1 pill 3 times a day for 4 days, then 1 pill twice a day for 3 days. If your condition persists it is always advisable to seek professional medical help.
This product may not be right for you. Please read and follow the label before use
Hemovel® is a registered trademark owned by Norwell Consumer Healthcare Inc.
References:
[1] Hemorrhoids
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15120-hemorrhoids
[2] What Are Hemorrhoids? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
By Lindsey Konkal
Everyday Health
https://www.everydayhealth.com/hemorrhoids/guide/
[3] Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet
Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983#:~:text=Dietary%20fiber%20increases%20the%20weight,Helps%20maintain%20bowel%20health%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8B
[4] Fiber
Harvard.edu
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/
[5] Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Hemorrhoids - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – NIDDK
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/eating-diet-nutrition
[6,7] Five Food People With Hemorrhoids Should Avoid - Health Match
https://healthmatch.io/hemorrhoids/5-foods-to-avoid-with-hemorrhoids
[8] Can yogurt and other probiotics help ease hemorrhoid pain?
LA Colon
https://lacolon.com/article/can-yogurt-other-probiotics-help-ease-hemorrhoid-pain#:~:text=As%20a%20part%20of%20a,to%20reducing%20your%20hemorrhoid%20pain.
[9] Important Flavonoids and Their Role as a Therapeutic Agent
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7697716/
