Diet for hemorrhoids
By the age of 50 one in two adults is affected by this uncomfortable condition. Although the symptoms vary from patient to patient (itching, tenderness or rectal bleeding) they can be unpleasant and sometimes even alarming.
Hemorrhoids are usually discussed in secret or not discussing at all since they fall into a category of health that is more uncomfortable than painful or perhaps as uncomfortable as painful. For many hemorrhoids can be so annoying that people may not even go to the doctor even though it is a mistake at the beginning. They usually disappear on their own, however, sometimes they need to be treated, and if left untreated they can cause some serious life-threatening conditions such as colon cancer.
Fortunately, hemorrhoids are not too difficult to treat, in fact, you can start treatment on your own at home. However, listen to your doctor’s advice because some treatments help to alleviate the symptoms immediately. Others include changes in diet which can ease constipation and prevent the return of hemorrhoid symptoms.
Hemorrhoids occur when small veins in the lower part of the rectum or around the opening of the anus become inflamed and swollen. Increased pressure in the veins presses and irritates the nerves in this area causing discomfort. Hemorrhoids that develop inside the rectum are called internal hemorrhoids unlike those that affect the veins on the outside of your anus and are called external hemorrhoids. Both types of hemorrhoids hurt, however, internal hemorrhoids usually cause less pain and discomfort than external hemorrhoids.
HOW HEMORRHOIDS CAN BE TREATED AT HOME
- Stay hydrated first – Water makes up almost 60% of our body weight. Since it is constantly lost from our body, it must be constantly replenished. Research shows that people do not drink enough fluids and most reach for water only when they feel thirsty. The feeling of thirst itself occurs when the organism has already lost a small percentage of fluid, ie when the loss is 1 to 2% of body weight. Water should be ingested throughout the day at regular intervals and this is considered to be two to three hours.
Complete hydration provides optimal mental and physical functions of the organism which affects slower aging and reduces the dangers of various pathological conditions such as. chronic constipation.
The most important thing to do when you have problems due to hemorrhoids is to make sure you stay hydrated. Water removes toxins and helps reduce inflammation the source of your hemorrhoids. And since the main symptom of hemorrhoids is constipation it is important to know that taking enough water during the day is necessary. By drinking more water and eating a high-fiber diet you will ease constipation.
Although it is recommended to drink water throughout the day and drinking fruit juices, e.g. plum juice or apple juice will also help prevent constipation. Constipation occurs when your stool becomes hard or “rocky” due to dehydration or another cause and forces you to work harder and strain longer to empty your bowels. Since hemorrhoids and constipation can cause bleeding, pain and tenderness in the rectum and anus, it is important to find an effective treatment for these conditions.
- Eat foods rich in fiber – A high-fiber diet appears to reduce the risk of developing a variety of conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, constipation, colon cancer and more.
WHY IS FIBER IMPORTANT IN THE DIET OF HEMORRHOIDS?
- They help regulate digestion and improve health
- They reduce the risk of several forms of cancer including colon cancer
- They regulate the stool
- They help you feel full so you need to eat less
- They improve cholesterol and blood pressure
- They reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes
- Fiber-rich foods offer a number of benefits – by making the stool softer they help heal swollen hemorrhoids. Best of all they usually have few calories and taste great.
WHAT ARE FIBERS?
To fully understand their roll you need to know that there are two types of dietary fiber – soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibers decompose on contact with water while insoluble fibers swell and do not decompose. Soluble predominate in fruits, vegetables and grains while insoluble predominate in legumes, some grains and in the peel of vegetables and fruits. Whether or not soluble fibers will determine their role in your body.
SOLUBLE FIBERS HELP WITH HEMORRHOID PROBLEMS
Soluble fibers in contact with water create a gelatinous mass that attracts many harmful substances. This mass also attracts sugars and fats from food. Research has shown that people who ingest large amounts of soluble fiber are slimmer and less prone to gaining extra pounds.
The fact that soluble fiber attracts sugars and fats means that they lower the level of sugar and triglycerides in the blood. Good bacteria in our intestines feed on soluble fiber so it is very important that you eat foods that are rich in them to keep your digestive system balanced.
In order to lose weight permanently it is still necessary in addition to adjusting the diet to engage in physical activity.
FOODS RICH IN SOLUBLE FIBERS
Barley helps treat hemorrhoids
Barley is rich in fibers called β-glucan which break down and form a high-viscosity gel in the colon and soften the stool. Research shows that consuming barley can help maintain good colon health.
Oats help empty the bowels
Oats not only have a beneficial effect on regulating cholesterol levels as well as blood sugar but also help lower blood pressure and empty the bowels. It is excellent in diets and it is believed that regular consumption can prolong life. For a long time oats were considered a good food only for animals while today the opinion has changed a lot. People with sensitive digestive organs are advised to make oatmeal porridge. With their help the work of the stomach is regulated as well as the syndrome of nervous intestines. One cup of cooked oatmeal contains about 4g of fiber and the fiber in oats can improve the health of the intestines, help soften the stool making it easier to pass and reducing the risk of stress.
The lens helps with digestion
Very important information that benefits all those who care about their body line is that these grains are a real rich source of easily digestible fiber which has a beneficial effect on digestion and gives a feeling of satiety.
An apple contains a large amount of fiber
Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber. A medium-sized apple with peel contains about 4,4 g of fiber which makes it a fruit with a large amount of fiber.
Orange helps to soften the stool
The inner skin that covers the flesh of citrus as in lemon and grapefruit contains a lot of fiber. Like tomatoes citrus fruits contain naringenin – a compound that has a laxative effect which helps relieve constipation and soften stools.
Pears are full of fiber
Pears are incredibly rich in fiber and other compounds that can benefit people with hemorrhoids. Peeled pears can contain about 6g of fiber. Pears also contain fructose which can act as a natural laxative.
Strawberry, blackberry and raspberry also help to soften the stool
This fruit contains a high level of fiber and a lot of water which helps to soften the stool. They also contain fructose which has a laxative effect.
Nuts help with hemorrhoids
Almonds, cashews, peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios, etc./ are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which are associated with the secretion of serotonin or the hormone of happiness! Eating a handful of nuts a day will make you feel good in your skin and since they have a significant amount of dietary fiber, they can also be used to prevent constipation. It is advisable to drink a sufficient amount of water immediately after eating the fruit.
Flax seeds are great for digestion
The structure of flax seeds contains soluble and insoluble substances that are beneficial for digestion, bowel cleansing, but also for maintaining an ideal body weight. Since flax is considered to have more fiber than any other plant it is beneficial for general health. Precisely because of this structure, flax seeds are especially recommended for people who want to get rid of extra pounds in a natural way. In addition flax reduces the feeling of hunger and gives a feeling of satiety.
If you want to lose extra pounds you need to take one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2 dl of juice or low-fat yogurt in the afternoon. A meal like this will keep you full for a long time, you will not feel hungry and you will not have a feeling of bloating.
Beans are one of the best sources of fiber
Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, beans and peas are one of the best sources of fiber.
Blueberries successfully maintain the intestinal flora
Blueberry fruit tea is often made which is effective in intestinal disorders, intestinal parasites and high blood sugar. It successfully keeps the intestinal flora healthy so it is used for various disorders of intestinal function and also for the entire digestive system, including the stomach, pancreas and liver. It is rich in fiber that feeds good bacteria in the intestines so we say that blueberries are an excellent probiotic.
Cucumber helps with digestion
Cucumber is full of water and low in calories and is used in salads and soups. Chewing cucumber strengthens your jaws and the fibers help digestion. Cucumber can also solve constipation problems.
Celery helps with bloating
Celery contains large amounts of magnesium, vitamin K and plant fiber. In addition it is rich in B complex vitamins as well as vitamin C. What makes it desirable for consumption are plant fibers that are great for good digestion, stomach ailments and bloating.
Carrots speed up digestion
Consumption of fresh carrots speeds up digestion, provides the necessary minerals, enzymes and vitamins, prevents the formation of stomach ulcers and other digestive disorders. Freshly squeezed carrot juice is ideal for cramps and other digestive problems.
INSOLUBLE FIBERS REGULATE DIGESTION
Insoluble fiber is especially important for the intestines. They stimulate bowel emptying and preserve the health of the digestive system, helping it to get rid of harmful substances as soon as possible. Because they absorb water, you will feel thirsty shortly after consuming foods rich in these fibers.
- Whole grain cereals
Wheat, corn, oats, barley, rye, whole grains should be an important part of a balanced diet and supply us with fiber and other nutrients. In addition to nutritional value they have an irreplaceable dietary value. They are the largest source of dietary fiber. Fiber is an important insoluble part of carbohydrates and that is why it has an irreplaceable role in regulating intestinal peristalsis.
In addition to this role they give a feeling of satiety, regulate cholesterol and blood sugar, regulate body weight so they are often recommended in all diets. In order to benefit from cereals in the body, we must chew them well.
- Wheat bran
Wheat bran is primarily a quality and tasty food. Medicinal properties come from the fact that they contain fiber, are rich in cellulose, minerals – iron, phosphorus and magnesium, as well as vitamins. Wheat bran contains 43 to 44% of crude plant fiber, mostly cellulose, which is insoluble.
- Corn bran
People have been using corn as a remedy for hemorrhoids since ancient times. This is because in addition to fiber corn also contains powerful antioxidants.
- Seeds
Flax seeds have gained immense popularity because they are a good source of omega 3 fatty acids and fiber. In addition, this seed is full of vitamins and nutrients that help you improve your overall health.
Whose seeds are considered one of the healthiest seeds on the planet. This super seed is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids and also contains polyphenols which are antioxidants. These seeds help regulate blood sugar levels, prevent diabetes, increase energy and metabolism. You can include them in your diet in the form of spreads, salads or simply mix it in water or any dairy product you want.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in nutrients and provide many benefits including diabetes control, increased weight loss, better digestion, prevention of insomnia, etc. They provide the body with many benefits, including preventing colon cancer, controlling acid reflux and more.
Sesame seeds contain antioxidants that help protect the liver from damage and serve as a good source of calcium. Sesame seeds affect better digestion.
Sunflower seeds have a high nutritional value and are gaining in popularity as a snack. They are very tasty and contain a large amount of fiber, protein, vitamin B1, vitamin E, magnesium, selenium and copper.
Hemp seeds are considered important especially for vegans since they contain all the amino acids that the body needs and they also contain soluble and insoluble fiber.
- Brown rice
It is richer in fiber than white rice and helps you feel full longer.
- Zucchini
Zucchini are interesting vegetables (although they are not very rich in vitamins) they are rich in minerals, especially potassium, dietary fiber, phosphorus and calcium. In addition to this zucchini also contains vitamin C in large quantities as well as B vitamins. Their great advantage is that they contain small amounts of sugar of which a very small part is sucrose and most of the plant substances are similar to insulin so zucchini are also useful in the diet of diabetics.
- Broccoli
Broccoli contains a compound called sulforaphane which can help improve digestion and protect the intestines.
- Cabbage
Cabbage is a vegetable that contains on average: 92.52% water; 1.21% protein; 0.18% fat and 2.3% dietary fiber. It is extremely rich in vitamins and minerals and due to its low caloric value it is recommended for people who have a problem with weight. This vegetable has antioxidant and antiseptic effects, strengthens immunity and has a beneficial effect in the case of numerous diseases as well as in regulating digestion.
- Onions
Onions contain primarily high values of vitamins C and B, folic acid, iron, calcium and dietary fiber. It has a low salt value and does not contain fat. In addition it contains a substance called quercetin – an antioxidant from the flavanoid group. Thanks to the mix of all these ingredients onions are one of the healthiest types of vegetables.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain fiber and water which can ease constipation and make it easier for stools to pass. It also contains naringenin – a natural antioxidant which scientists have shown to have a laxative effect on some forms of constipation. We suggest you read more about tomatoes and hemorrhoids in our text.
- Beans
Beans are a very good source of dietary fiber. They play an important role in regular bowel movements due to which toxic substances are retained in the body for a shorter period of time thus minimizing the risk of numerous dangerous conditions. These vegetables are available throughout the year in frozen form whose nutritional value does not lag behind fresh vegetables.
- Green leafy vegetables
Kale, leek, chicory, dill, lettuce and chard are perfect for cleansing the body. These types of vegetables contain chlorophyll which removes various types of toxins from the body. It is best to eat green leafy vegetables raw because then the effect of their properties is greatest, but if you can’t you can steam it and you will preserve its valuable nutritional properties.
- Raisins
Raisins contain dietary fiber and many phytonutrients. The fiber in raisins helps regulate weight and cholesterol, reduces the risk of colon cancer and improves digestion.
- Grapes
In addition to refreshing grapes are a medicine for regulating digestion, for cleansing the blood, removing fat layers, treating inflammatory processes, etc. It does not contain cholesterol but it affects the creation of good HDL cholesterol which is why grapes are especially recommended for children, the elderly, convalescents – practically everyone except diabetics who must use this fruit carefully.
- Root vegetables
Root vegetables are a group in which an underground part root or tuber is used. Parsnip is low in calories. It contains large amounts of vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, fiber and minerals. It has antiseptic and diuretic properties and acts to dilate blood vessels. Horseradish has diuretic properties and improves digestion. Celery is a low-calorie plant which contains a lot of fiber that has a positive effect on digestion. Root vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber.
Fiber improves human health in many ways. With foods that are rich in insoluble fiber you will include all the necessary nutrients in your diet. This food is usually harder to digest so your stomach has time to send a message to your brain when you are full and to prevent you from overeating.
WHICH FOODS TO AVOID IN HEMORRHOIDS
As you may have guessed by now if you eat too much low-fiber food it can lead to constipation and potentially hemorrhoids. Here are some foods that are considered bad for hemorrhoids and that might be best avoided:
- White bread and white rice
- Milk, cheese and dairy products
- Meat
- Processed foods like some frozen ready meals and fast food.
Finally, the goal is a balanced diet that provides your body with all the necessary nutrients and includes enough fiber to help create soft stools. If you find that you need to increase your fiber intake the British Nutrition Foundation recommends that you do it gradually and be careful to drink plenty of water (it is considered necessary about 6-8 glasses a day) and at the same time do regular weekly exercises.
Processed foods and those rich in fats, sugar or refined carbohydrates can also increase the risk of conditions that cause hemorrhoids especially constipation.
To reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids or the risk of them, avoid eating and drinking:
