Hemorrhoids, often known as piles, are enlarged blood vessels in the lower rectum or surrounding the anus. They can manifest with symptoms like discomfort, itching, swelling and bleeding during bowel movements, and they can be internal or external. A nutritious and well-balanced diet is important in reducing the symptoms and preventing further complications. In this blog, we will discuss the best diet for piles patients and foods that should be avoided to manage this condition effectively.
What are some good foods for piles patients?
Making dietary adjustments can help control the symptoms of piles, and certain foods are particularly beneficial. Here are some foods for a good diet for piles that can help ease symptoms:
- Fibre-rich foods: Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole wheat bread help soften stool and improve digestion. Fruits, including apples, pears, bananas, and berries, are high in fibre and water content, aiding digestion. Legumes, nuts, and seeds like beans, lentils, chia seeds, and walnuts promote bowel regularity and ease constipation.
- High-water content foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, celery, and tomatoes are high in water content, helping hydrate the body and keep stool soft for easy passage.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil and avocados contain healthy fats that lubricate the digestive system, making stool easier to pass and reducing inflammation.
- Probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi promote healthy gut bacteria and support digestion.
Foods to avoid for piles patients
While certain foods can be good for the treatment of piles, some foods may aggravate the symptoms and contribute to constipation. Avoiding or limiting these foods is crucial for managing piles:
- Low-fibre foods: Refined grains like white rice, white bread, and products made from refined grains are low in fibre and can lead to constipation. Processed foods such as ready-made meals, fast food, and snacks are also low in fibre and high in unhealthy fats, which may worsen digestive issues.
- Spicy foods: These can aggravate the digestive tract and increase discomfort for piles patients. They may cause inflammation which aggravates symptoms such as pain and itching around the anus.
- Dairy products: Full-fat dairy products, including cheese, cream, and whole milk, can cause constipation and bloating for some individuals.
- Caffeine and alcohol: Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to dehydration, which worsens constipation and piles symptoms. Similarly, alcohol dehydrates the body and can cause both constipation and inflammation.
Conclusion
A balanced, fibre-rich diet is essential for managing piles and preventing the condition from worsening. Incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and hydration into your diet can promote healthy digestion and ease the symptoms of piles. Investing in a mediclaim policy can provide you with access to professional healthcare and treatments that may be necessary for managing and preventing piles.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a medical or nutrition professional before making any significant changes in your daily diet. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any impact or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.