Eat These 5 Foods to Prevent Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that form in our around your rectum and anal opening. They typically develop when that area of your body comes under excess pressure, and constipation could contribute to that pressure. For that reason, a diet that’s high in fiber can help reduce your risk, which is why we suggest eating these five foods to prevent hemorrhoids.

Fiber and Constipation

You can find fiber in several types of food sources, including nuts, seeds, grains, fruits and veggies. There are two types of fiber:

• Soluble, meaning it dissolves in water
• Insoluble, meaning it won’t dissolve in water

A healthy diet should contain a blend of both soluble and insoluble fiber. This mix helps prevent constipation by making stools both larger and softer. That way, they pass at a faster pace when moving through your body, and they are easier to pass when it’s time to head to the bathroom. This reduces the amount of time you spend on the toilet, and helps you avoid straining when you pass a bowel movement, both of which can be causes of hemorrhoids.

High-Fiber Foods to Prevent Hemorrhoids

Some people take fiber supplements for hemorrhoids. But you can actually add more fiber to your diet naturally with these five foods. As a bonus, they are packed with plenty of other nutrients and substances that your body needs to function optimally, so by choosing these foods to prevent hemorrhoids, you may also improve your general well-being. Just remember to increase your fluid intake when eating more fiber.  An increase in fiber intake without adequate hydration can lead to constipation which of could cause worsening hemorrhoid flares and inflammation. 

1. Kiwis: this tasty choice is a great source of soluble fiber, with each fruit containing 2 grams. (The average daily goal is between 25 and 38 grams each day, though totals vary depending on your age, gender and current state of health.) Simply eating two kiwis a day for four weeks helped participants in this study increase their daily bowel movements and improve overall comfort with their digestive systems.
   
   
2. Apples: containing both soluble and insoluble fiber (as long as you keep the skin on your fruit), this crunchy favorite will help keep you from sitting on the toilet for too long.
   
   
3. Barley: Containing 6 grams of soluble fiber per cooked cup, this old-school grain can really soften stools to help make the go more comfortable. Try adding it to a soup or using it as a rice replacement in your favorite rice recipes.
   
4. Lentils: Another soup staple, this is one of the best foods to prevent hemorrhoids because it’s both a great source of fibroid and it can help nourish the healthy microbes in your gut, supporting optimal digestion and better overall health.
   
   
5. Popcorn: This choice may be surprising, but popcorn is packed with 1.2 grams of insoluble fiber per cup. Keep this food choice in the healthy realm by skipping the butter and salt, and you’ve got a fun and easy way to sneak more fiber into your daily diet.

Help for Existing Hemorrhoids

While fiber can help reduce your risk for hemorrhoids, dietary changes alone may not be able to resolve existing concerns. So, if you are dealing with grade 2-3 internal hemorrhoids, and want relief without surgery, we’re here to help. Contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute Contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute Contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute to learn more about minimally invasive treatment options.