Proper nutrition for hemorrhoids: what is possible and what is impossible

Proper nutrition for hemorrhoids: what is possible and what is impossible

Hemorrhoids are a common disease associated with inflammation and increase in hemorrhoidal nodes in the rectum and anus. Factors contributing to the development of hemorrhoids include a sedentary lifestyle, pregnancy, a genetic predisposition and, most importantly, malnutrition. The diet plays a key role in the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids, since it directly affects the consistency of the stool, intestinal peristalsis and pressure in the abdominal cavity. Compliance with the principles of proper nutrition allows us to normalize the work of the intestines, reduce constipation and diarrhea, soften the stool and reduce the risk of exacerbations. In this article, we will examine in detail which products are recommended for hemorrhoids and which should be excluded from the diet, and also discuss the principles of compiling a balanced and useful menu for people suffering from this disease.

I. Key for nutrition for hemorrhoids

Effective control of hemorrhoids using a diet is built on several fundamental principles aimed at maintaining regular stools, reducing pressure on the rectum and preventing inflammation.

1. Abundant fiber consumption: Fiber is undigested plant fibers that play a vital role in maintaining intestinal health. It increases the volume of the stool, softens it and facilitates the passage through the intestines, thereby reducing the need for excessive tension during defecation. This, in turn, reduces the pressure on hemorrhoids and reduces the risk of their inflammation.

2. Sufficient fluid consumption: Water is necessary to maintain the normal consistency of the stool. With insufficient fluid consumption, the stool becomes solid and dry, which makes it difficult to pass and can lead to constipation, which are one of the main risk factors for the development and exacerbation of hemorrhoids.

3. Limiting products that provoke constipation and diarrhea: Some products can aggravate hemorrhoid symptoms, causing constipation or diarrhea. It is important to identify and limit the consumption of such products to maintain stable intestinal operation.

4. Regular nutrition: Eating at the same time helps regulate intestinal motility and prevents irregular stool. Passing meals of food or irregular nutrition can disrupt the natural rhythm of the intestine and contribute to the development of constipation or diarrhea.

5. Weight control: Excess weight and obesity increase the pressure on the pelvic organs and can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy weight with a balanced diet and physical activity helps reduce the risk of developing the disease.

6. Moderation in alcohol consumption and spicy foods: Alcohol and acute foods can irritate the intestinal mucosa and cause inflammation, which can aggravate the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

7. Individual approach: The reaction to various foods can vary in different people. It is important to carefully monitor your body and identify products that cause undesirable symptoms and adapt a diet in accordance with individual needs.

II. Products recommended for hemorrhoids (“what can”)

With hemorrhoids, it is extremely important to include in the diet products rich in fiber, contributing to the normalization of the stool and maintaining the health of the intestine. These products include:

1. Fruits:

   • Apples: Contain pectin, soluble fiber, which contributes to the formation of a soft stool. It is preferable to use apples with a peel, since it is in it that contains most of the fiber.
   • Pear: Also rich in pectin and other types of fiber. They have a mild laxative effect.
   • Bananas: They contain potassium and fiber, help regulate the level of fluid in the body and improve intestinal motility. Ripe bananas have a mild laxative effect, and unimportant can, on the contrary, be attached.
   • Plums and prunes: They are known for their laxative effect due to the content of sorbitus and fiber. It is recommended to use prunes in small quantities to avoid an excessive laxative effect.
   • Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries): Rich in antioxidants and fiber. Improve digestion and help strengthen the walls of blood vessels.
   • Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, tangerines): Contain vitamin C and fiber. It is important to use them with caution, as they can irritate the intestinal mucosa in some people.

2. Vegetables:

   • Broccoli and cauliflower: Contain a large amount of fiber and vitamins.
   • Carrot: It is rich in fiber and beta-carotene.
   • Beet: It has a mild laxative effect due to the content of betaine.
   • Zucchini: Easily absorbed and contain fiber.
   • Pumpkin: It is rich in fiber and vitamins.
   • Leafy vegetables (spinach, salad ,rugula): Contain fiber, vitamins and minerals.
   • Cucumbers: They contain a large amount of water and fiber, contribute to maintaining hydration and improving intestinal motility.
   • Tomatoes: Contain lycopines, antioxidant, and fiber.

3. Grain and legumes:

   • Oatmeal: It is rich in soluble fiber, which contributes to the formation of a soft stool.
   • Brown rice: Contains more fiber than white rice.
   • Whole wheat bread: It is preferable to ordinary white bread, as it contains more fiber.
   • Buckwheat: It is rich in fiber and trace elements.
   • Lentils: Contains a large amount of fiber and protein.
   • Beans: It is also rich in fiber and protein. It is recommended to use in moderation, as it can cause gas formation.
   • Pea: Contains fiber and vitamins.

4. Nuts and seeds:

   • Almond: Contains fiber and healthy fats.
   • Walnuts: The omega-3 fatty acids and fiber are rich.
   • Flax seeds: They contain a large amount of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. You can add to yogurt, porridge or baking.
   • Seeds of Chia: Also rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

5. Sour -milk products:

   • Kefir: Contains probiotics that contribute to the maintenance of a healthy intestinal microflora.
   • Yogurt (without a silver): It also contains probiotics and helps to improve digestion.
   • Ryazhenka: Contains probiotics and calcium.

6. Other products:

   • Vegetable oils (olive, linseed): They contain useful fats that help soften the stool.
   • Sea cabbage: Contains fiber and iodine.
   • Water: It is important to drink enough water during the day (at least 1.5-2 liters).

III. Products that should be avoided or limited to hemorrhoids (“what can not”)

Some products can aggravate the symptoms of hemorrhoids, causing constipation, diarrhea or irritation of the intestinal mucosa. They should be avoided or limited in the diet:

1. Products provoking constipation:

   • White bread and baking of white flour: They contain little fiber and can contribute to constipation.
   • Red meat (beef, pork): Heavily digested and can cause constipation.
   • Fatty food (fried, fast food): Slow down digestion and can lead to constipation.
   • Smoked meats: They contain a lot of salt and preservatives who can delay water in the body and contribute to constipation.
   • Semi -finished products: They usually contain little fiber and a lot of fat and salt.
   • Rice (white): It has a fixing effect.
   • Strong tea and coffee: They can have a diuretic effect and contribute to dehydration.
   • Chocolate: Contains aobromine that can slow down intestinal motility.
   • Persimmon: Contains tanns that have a astringent effect.

2. Products that provoke diarrhea:

   • Acute food (chili pepper, spicy sauces): An irritates the intestinal mucosa and can cause diarrhea.
   • Alcohol: An irritates the intestinal mucosa and can disrupt the digestion process.
   • Shipy drinks: They can cause bloating and diarrhea.
   • Dairy products (for some people): With intolerance, lactose can cause diarrhea.
   • Fructose (in large quantities): Can cause diarrhea in some people.
   • Artificial sweeteners: Some artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, mannit, xylitol) can have a laxative effect.

3. Products that irritate the intestinal mucosa:

   • Marinades and pickles: They contain a lot of salt and vinegar that can irritate the intestinal mucosa.
   • Canned food: Contain preservatives and additives that can irritate the intestinal mucosa.
   • Citrus fruits (for some people): They can irritate the intestinal mucosa in people with sensitive digestion.
   • Tomatoes (in large quantities): They contain acid that can irritate the intestinal mucosa.
   • Onions and garlic (in large quantities): They can cause bloating and intestinal irritation.

4. Other products:

   • Mushrooms: Heavily digested and can cause discomfort in the intestines.
   • Legumes (for some people): They can cause gas formation and bloating. It is recommended to use in moderation and pre -soak.

IV. Examples of the menu for hemorrhoids

The following menu examples are only indicative and can be adapted in accordance with individual needs and preferences. It is important to consider the tolerance of products and monitor the reaction of the body.

Example 1: menu for one day (emphasis on vegetables and fruits)

• Breakfast: Oat porridge on the water with berries and flax seeds, a glass of kefir.
• Dinner: Vegetable puree soup (from pumpkin or zucchini), baked fish with vegetable salad (cucumber, tomato, greens, olive oil).
• Dinner: Stewed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower) with boiled chicken breast.
• Snacks: Apple, pear, a handful of nuts, yogurt without additives.
• Drinks: Water (at least 1.5-2 liters), herbal tea, dried fruit compote.

Example 2: menu for one day (emphasis on grain and legumes)

• Breakfast: Buckwheat porridge with vegetables, a glass of fermented ash.
• Dinner: Lentil soup, whole grain bread, beetroot salad with prunes and walnuts.
• Dinner: Boiled beans with stewed vegetables, a piece of whole grain bread.
• Snacks: Banana, a handful of almonds, kefir.
• Drinks: Water, rosehip decoction.

Example 3: menu for exacerbation of hemorrhoids (soft diet)

• Breakfast: Rice porridge on the water (well -decorated), a glass of weak tea.
• Dinner: Vegetable soup soup (carrots, potatoes, zucchini), boiled chicken fillet (wiped).
• Dinner: Steam omelet, baked apple.
• Snacks: Banana, jelly.
• Drinks: Water, decoction of chamomile.

Important comments when compiling the menu:

• Start with small portions of new products: This will assess the reaction of the body and avoid undesirable symptoms.
• Chew food thoroughly: This facilitates the digestion process and reduces the load on the intestines.
• Take food in small portions 5-6 times a day: This helps maintain a stable blood sugar and improves intestinal motility.
• Do not eat before going to bed: The last meal should be no later than 2-3 hours before bedtime.
• If necessary, consult a doctor or nutritionist: A specialist will help you draw up an individual nutrition plan, taking into account your needs and characteristics of the body.

V. Additional recommendations for nutrition and lifestyle in hemorrhoids

In addition to proper nutrition, there are other important factors that can help in the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids.

1. Physical activity: Regular physical exercises help improve blood circulation in the pelvic organs and strengthen the abdominal muscles, which helps prevent constipation and reduce pressure on hemorrhoid nodes. Moderate types of physical activity, such as walking, swimming, yoga and Pilates are recommended. Excessive loads should be avoided, especially weight lifting, which can aggravate the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

2. Correct pose for defecation: The use of a small bench under the feet during defecation allows you to take a more natural pose, which facilitates bowel movements and reduces the need for excessive tension.

3. Timely bowel movement: Do not postpone the urge to defecate, as this can lead to constipation. It is important to allocate enough time to visit the toilet and not rush.

4. Anal hygiene: After each defecation, it is recommended to wash the anal area with cool water or use wet wipes without alcohol and fragrances. The use of hard toilet paper, which can irritate the skin, should be avoided.

5. Refusal of smoking: Smoking negatively affects blood circulation and can contribute to the development of inflammatory processes in the body, including in the rectum.

6. Wearing comfortable clothes: Wearing close clothing should be avoided, which can squeeze the pelvic area and disrupt blood circulation.

7. Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing: A long stay in a sedentary or standing position increases the pressure on the hemorrhoid nodes. It is recommended to take regular breaks for warm -up and walks.

8. Application of local funds: To facilitate the symptoms of hemorrhoids, local products can be used, such as ointments, creams and candles containing anti -inflammatory, analgesic and wound healing components. Before using local funds, you need to consult a doctor.

9. Appeal to the doctor: If the symptoms of hemorrhoids appear, consult a doctor to diagnose and prescribe adequate treatment. Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to complications.

VI. Myths and misconceptions about nutrition for hemorrhoids

There are many myths and misconceptions about nutrition for hemorrhoids, which can lead to improper dietary solutions and a deterioration in the condition. It is important to dispel these myths and get reliable information.

1. Myth: With hemorrhoids, you need to starve.

   • Reality: Fasting is not a solution to the problem. On the contrary, irregular nutrition and long breaks between meals can lead to constipation and aggravate the symptoms of hemorrhoids. It is important to eat regularly and balanced.

2. Myth: With hemorrhoids, you can eat only boiled food.

   • Reality: Boiled food is certainly useful, but not necessarily limited to it. You can include baked, stewed and prepared for a couple of dishes in the diet. The main thing is that the food is easily absorbed and not irritated the mucous membrane of the intestine.

3. Myth: With hemorrhoids, you can not eat fruits and vegetables.

   • Reality: As we have already found out, fruits and vegetables are an important component of the diet for hemorrhoids, as they are rich in fiber, which contributes to the normalization of the stool. It is only important to choose fruits and vegetables that are well tolerated and do not cause discomfort.

4. Myth: With hemorrhoids, you need to drink only laxative teas.

   • Reality: Lessifying teas can be useful in the short term to facilitate constipation, but their prolonged use can lead to the addiction and disruption of the natural work of the intestine. It is much more effective and safer to establish regular stool with proper nutrition and sufficient fluid consumption.

5. Myth: Hemorrhoids can only be cured by operation.

   • Reality: The operation is necessary only in severe cases when conservative methods of treatment, including a diet, do not give results. In most cases, hemorrhoids can be dealt with by changing lifestyle, proper nutrition and local means.

6. Myth: With hemorrhoids, you need to completely abandon alcohol.

   • Reality: Moderate alcohol consumption (for example, a glass of dry wine) is unlikely to harm, but alcohol abuse can aggravate the symptoms of hemorrhoids. It is best to avoid alcohol during the period of exacerbation of the disease.

VII. The role of food additives for hemorrhoids

In some cases, along with proper nutrition, food additives can be useful that help improve the condition of the intestines and alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

1. Fiber: If it is not possible to get a sufficient amount of fiber from food, you can take additives with fiber, such as psillium, bran or methyl cellulose. It is important to start with small doses and gradually increase them in order to avoid swelling of the abdomen and discomfort. Be sure to drink fiber with enough water.

2. Probiotics: Probiotics are useful bacteria that help maintain a healthy intestinal microflora. They can be useful for hemorrhoids, especially if the disease is associated with digestion or antibiotics.

3. Routine: Rutin is a flavonoid that strengthens the walls of blood vessels and reduces their permeability. It can be useful for hemorrhoids to reduce bleeding and edema.

4. Vitamin C: Vitamin C also strengthens the walls of blood vessels and has antioxidant properties.

5. Magnesium: Magnesium helps to relax muscles and improve intestinal motility, which can be useful for constipation.

It is important to remember that before taking any food additives, you need to consult a doctor, since they can have contraindications and side effects.

VIII. Food for hemorrhoids after surgery

After the operation to remove hemorrhoids, food plays a particularly important role in the recovery process. The purpose of the diet during this period is to provide a soft chair, prevent constipation and diarrhea, as well as promote tissue healing.

1. The first days after the operation: In the first days after the operation, it is recommended to observe a sparing diet consisting of easily digestible products. You can use broths, wiped soups, liquid porridge on the water, jelly, weak tea. It is important to drink enough water.

2. Gradual expansion of the diet: As the condition improves, you can gradually expand the diet by adding boiled vegetables, fruits, fermented milk products, boiled meat and fish to it.

3. Limiting products irritating the intestines: In the postoperative period, it is especially important to avoid products that can irritate the intestinal mucosa, such as spicy, fatty, fried food, alcohol and carbonated drinks.

4. Increase in fiber consumption: To prevent constipation, it is necessary to use a sufficient amount of fiber.

5. Regular nutrition: It is important to eat regularly, in small portions 5-6 times a day.

6. Compliance with the doctor’s recommendations: In the postoperative period, it is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations for the nutrition and use of drugs.

IX. Diet during pregnancy and hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids often occur during pregnancy due to an increase in the pressure on the pelvic organs and hormonal changes. Proper nutrition plays an important role in the prevention and relief of hemorrhoids in pregnant women.

1. Increase in fiber consumption: It is especially important for pregnant women to use a sufficient amount of fiber to prevent constipation.

2. Sufficient fluid consumption: Pregnant women are recommended to drink at least 2-2.5 liters of water per day.

3. Balanced nutrition: It is important that the diet of a pregnant woman is balanced and contains all the necessary nutrients for the health of the mother and the child.

4. Limiting products provoking constipation: It is necessary to avoid the use of products that can cause constipation, such as white bread, red meat, fatty foods and chocolate.

5. Regular physical exercises: Moderate physical exercises, such as walking and swimming, help improve blood circulation and prevent constipation.

6. Consultation with a doctor: Pregnant women with hemorrhoids need to consult a doctor to obtain individual recommendations for nutrition and treatment.

X. Conclusion

Proper nutrition is an important component of an integrated approach to the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids. Compliance with the principles of a balanced diet, the use of a sufficient amount of fiber and liquid, the limitation of products provoking constipation and diarrhea, as well as conducting a healthy lifestyle will help alleviate the symptoms of the disease and prevent its exacerbations. It is important to remember that each organism is individual, and the reaction to various foods can vary. It is necessary to carefully monitor your body and adapt the diet in accordance with the individual needs and recommendations of the doctor. Regular consultations with a doctor and nutritionist will help to develop the most effective and safe nutrition plan to maintain intestinal health and prevent hemorrhoids.