While hemorrhoids are commonly known as piles and can cause swelling and pain in the anus, there can also be bleeding and swelling in the anus as the blood vessels are collected around the anus. Hemorrhoids are caused when you have chronic constipation, and you are putting pressure while passing stools. The other symptom of hemorrhoids can be blood in the stools. Certain foods can exacerbate symptoms and worsen hemorrhoids, while others can help alleviate them.

In this blog, we will explore 5 foods to avoid with hemorrhoids. These foods can irritate the digestive system, causing inflammation and worsening hemorrhoid symptoms. We will also explore some alternative foods recommended for people with hemorrhoids, including foods that are high in fiber and can help promote healthy digestion.

5 Foods To Avoid With Hemorrhoids

Whether you are dealing with the discomfort of hemorrhoids or simply looking to maintain good digestive health, here are the foods that you should avoid:

1. Deep-fried foods

Processed food items like frozen meals and fast foods can be deep fried.

They can be heavy and difficult to digest, and there can be fewer nutrients, plenty of salt, and unhealthy fats that can contribute to poor digestion and constipation.

Deep-fried foods are nutritionally rare and have lesser fiber, too, so it will be better to avoid them.

Deep-fried foods are harmful to the body and can cause obesity and other problems.

2. Spicy foods

Eating spicy foods can be okay or even delicious for the tongue, but it will be twice as painful for bowel movements.

So even if Schezwan chutney and pepperoni pizzas are your favorites and you cannot leave them under any condition, then be prepared for the troublesome piles and bleeding in the anus.

These food items are good on the tongue for a while but terrible for piles or hemorrhoids.

We will not consider eating spicy food to avoid eating piles.

3. Milk and its products

According to NIH, fermented milk and milk products are the common cause of constipation and diarrhea.

Dairy and dairy products can be challenging to digest. Thus, they can lead to gas formation in the stomach. They can result in cramps in the stomach and long-term constipation.

Milk, cheese, and its products are troublesome for some with hemorrhoids. They can result in flare-ups of many diseases. So please keep track of your diary products and their consumption.

Milk products can be consumed by a person suffering from hemorrhoids, but they should not consume them as whole meals. You can eat curd or cheese but in limited quantities.

You can consume the minimum dairy intake as recommended by your healthcare provider.

4. Refined grains

Refined grains can be like white rice, bread, bagels, and tempering cookies or cakes. They are available in the stores and their brand components.

These refined grains are deficient in fiber, and the whole grains can be in their refined forms.

Your pasta and maggie are also part of the refined food items. Thus, leave them while considering food to avoid when having hemorrhoids.

Refined grains are the main reason for constipation in many humans, and constipation can flare up hemorrhoids. So one should avoid refined grains if they have hemorrhoids.

5. High-salted foods

If you love munching on your favorite tortilla chips and a packet of salted peanuts, you should think twice before buying them.

Highly salted foods can be responsible for water retention and affect the blood vessels, including the ones troubling you at the other end of your body.

Highly salted foods can also increase the blood pressure and heart conditions of individuals who are already suffering from piles.

One of the reasons for constipation is insufficient water in the intestines to flush out the stool. Thus, you should leave these highly salted foods.

Also Read: Why Do Hemorrhoids Itch and How Can You Get Rid of Them?

What to Eat if You Have Hemorrhoids?

If you have hemorrhoids, your diet plays a crucial role in managing symptoms and promoting healing. Here's what to eat:

1. High-Fiber Foods

Whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa)

Fresh fruits (apples, pears, berries)

Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, spinach)

Legumes (beans, lentils)

Helps soften stool and reduce straining during bowel movements

2. Hydrating Foods and Liquids

Water (8-10 glasses daily)

Herbal teas

Watermelon, cucumber

Prevents constipation and supports smooth bowel movements

3. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Yogurt

Kefir

Kimchi

Supports gut health and improves digestive regularity

5. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)

Nuts (almonds, walnuts)

Olive oil

Reduces inflammation and promotes healing

Foods High in Vitamin C

Citrus fruits

Bell peppers

Strawberries

Supports tissue healing and strengthens blood vessels

Quick Tips for Relieving Hemorrhoids

Sitting in warm water and providing significant relief.

Drink plenty of water, and try not to exert pressure while passing the stools.

Try exercising regularly or performing yoga for the entire workout of the body.

Refrain from ignoring or feeling embarrassed if you have piles; do not think twice before consulting the doctor.

ake an analgesic and apply an ointment on the anal area with swelling or redness.

Also Read: Hemorrhoid vs Rectal Prolapse: what's the Difference?

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are painful conditions that make passing stools difficult and often result in the presence of blood in the stools. They are usually caused by excessive pressure on the intestines during bowel movements. This condition can be particularly challenging as the anal region becomes swollen and inflamed. To manage hemorrhoids effectively, it’s important to be mindful of your diet, especially by identifying 5 foods to avoid with hemorrhoids, such as overly salted or spicy foods, which can exacerbate the symptoms and hinder recovery.

5 Foods To Avoid With Hemorrhoids: Must Skip These For Relief