Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia

Adding more fiber in the diet can offset hemorrhoids.

by Medindia Content Team on May 10 2006 10:03 AM

A diet that is high on fiber is perhaps the first thing that doctors and dieticians would recommend, especially in offsetting hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids, a condition characterized by enlargement of blood vessels, in and around the anus that can give rise to bleeding and uneasiness.

According to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, hemorrhoids can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy, chronic constipation or diarrhea, overuse of laxatives, and straining during bowel movements. Age and heredity can also contribute to the onset of hemorrhoids. Symptoms include bleeding during bowel movements, itching, and painful bumps around the anus.

Dietary changes -- adding plenty of fiber in the form of fruits, vegetables and whole grains -- are recommended by the ASCRS to help prevent or reduce hemorrhoids, as is drinking plenty of liquids. You can soothe the itching and burning by soaking in a bath of plain warm water for about 10 minutes. Ointments and other over-the-counter remedies may also help.

Source: Foodconsumer.org


Advertisement