How Can My Diet Affect Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are characterized by swelling in the veins of the anal canal which result from excess pressure applied to this area. The veins begin to bulge outwards and this bulge may engorge with blood. There are several ways in which pressure can be applied to the rectal area, with the two most common being spending large amounts of time sitting down, and straining when you pass stool. The straining will usually occur as a result of constipation, which is not often recognized.

If you have developed hemorrhoids, regardless of whether they are internal (located in the anal canal) or external (clotted areas outside the anal verge), the first recommendation that your Los Angeles colorectal specialist will make is that you change your diet. This is because what you eat can have a dramatic effect on your gastrointestinal system, of which the rectum and anus are the most distal part.  In order to reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids or making any existing ones more severe, your doctor is likely to advise you to begin following a high fiber diet.

A high fiber diet should be rich in fruits and vegetables, and you will obtain the maximum benefit from this if you are also eating the skins, in cases where these are edible. Whole grain products such as cereals, brown rice and brown bread also contain high levels of fiber, as do nuts and seeds. Your doctor will be able to suggest a variety of foods that meet the criteria for this type of diet. Fiber is an important component of any healthy diet, because it ensures that the food you eat moves through the digestive system regularly. This will allow the nutrients to be absorbed, without slowing down the transit of material too much. A lack of fiber in the diet leads to constipation, which means that passing stool is difficult and you will be more likely to strain as a result.

If hemorrhoids have been troubling you, then your colorectal surgeon is also likely to recommend an increase in your fluid intake. Water would be the most appropriate choice, since it will keep your body effectively hydrated. Caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee and cola should be avoided, as these will cause even more water to be lost from the body. Staying hydrated is important because if you do not drink enough, the body will try to absorb the water it needs from your food instead. This will cause the stools to become harder, and they may form small lumps.  The harder the stool, the more difficult it is to pass.

As with any colorectal condition, what you eat can have a considerable effect on your symptoms, and hemorrhoids are no exception. If you are unsure about what changes you need to make to your diet and lifestyle in order to reduce your symptoms and minimize the chances of the condition recurring in the future, then you should book a consultation with your Los Angeles proctologist. This will enable you to find out more about your condition and how it may affect you, both now and in the future.