Foods That Help Treat Piles: Dietary Tips for Relief
Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and rectum that cause pain and bleeding during bowel motions. One of the most overlooked yet powerful solutions for piles can be found in something we encounter every day, our food.
Symptoms can be greatly reduced by a high-fibre diet, proper hydration, and avoidance of aggravating foods. Read ahead to learn more about the foods that can be consumed and those that should be avoided during treatment for piles.
What are the foods that help with pile treatment?
Consuming a balanced diet high in fibre, water, and organic anti-inflammatory elements will help alleviate piles symptoms and promote good bowel health. Listed below are the best food groups to help during the piles treatment:
Whole Grains
- These are great sources of dietary fibre, including brown rice, whole wheat bread, barley, oats, and millets (ragi, bajra, and jowar)
- They soften the stool, which helps it pass more gently and reduces the need to push.
- Soluble fibre found particularly in oatmeal forms a gut gel, aiding in controlling digestion.
Fiber-Rich Vegetables
- Rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre are vegetables such as cauliflower, radish, carrots, fenugreek (methi), spinach, and broccoli.
- Leafy greens are valuable for their natural laxative properties and anti-inflammatory capacity.
- Cruciferous vegetables include Brussels sprouts, kale, and cauliflower, which are known for improving intestinal bacteria and softening stools.
Root Vegetables
- Sweet potatoes, turnips, beets, and yams are rich in fibre.
- Eating them with their skins on raises their fibre content, thus aiding in the alleviation of constipation.
- Abundant in antioxidants, they help reduce the irritation of hemorrhoidal tissues.
Fresh Fruits
- Water and fibre are found in fruits such as oranges, bananas, apples, pears, and grapes.
- Soluble fibre and antioxidants are found in berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
- Due to their high pectin levels, bananas are recognized to help soothe digestion and control bowel movements.
Legumes
- Add chickpeas, lentils, black beans, peas, and coriander to your dinner.
- Cooked lentils provide around 8 grams of fibre in just half a cup.
- Aids in forming soft stools and ensuring effortless bowel movements.
Nuts and Seeds
- Fibres and anti-inflammatory properties are found in raw and unsalted walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and almonds.
- Expanding in the gut, chia seeds and flax seeds help to prevent constipation and improve digestion.
Fluids and Water
- Drink 2-3 litres daily to help loosen stools and prevent dehydration-induced constipation.
- Hydrating alternatives include buttermilk and coconut water.
What are the Foods to Avoid During Piles Treatment?
Some foods can make constipation, gut lining irritation, or haemorrhoid symptoms more serious. Listed below are the foods that should be avoided during piles treatment:
Processed and Junk Foods
- Avoid deep-fried foods, snack bars, chips, fast food, and instant noodles.
- These have little fibre, much sodium, and trans fats that provoke gut upset.
Red Meat and Fatty Cuts
- Mutton, beef, and pork are fibre-free and hard to digest.
- Their high fat content may exacerbate constipation and slow down the digestive process.
Dairy Products
- Certain individuals may experience constipation after consuming ice cream, cheese, and full-fat milk.
- If dairy products exacerbate your condition, consider plant-based alternatives instead.
Spicy Foods
- Spicy foods, including chilli peppers and green chillies, can irritate the anal area and aggravate inflammation.
- They can also cause post-bowel movement itchiness and discomfort.
Alcohol
- Dehydration caused by alcohol leads to constipation.
- It also hampers nutrient intake and delays digestion.
Caffeinated Beverages
- Beverages such as energy drinks, cola, tea, and coffee function as diuretics.
- They increase the risk of straining.
Extra Tips to Ease Pile Symptoms
Along with healthy food intake, there are also a few tips that you should keep in mind to better manage piles:
- Start slowly increasing fibre consumption to keep bloating down.
- Eat every couple of hours to maintain a proper digestive rhythm.
- Add exercises like yoga or walking to help stimulate bowel movements.
- While seated on the toilet, use a squat posture or a foot-stooled device to relieve tension in the anal canal.
- Never delay your bowel movements, and ensure they are regular.
Keep in mind that, particularly when dealing with piles, what you consume affects how you feel. Stay well hydrated and active; however, avoid low-fibre and irritant foods. For optimal effects, integrate medical guidance with a healthy diet.
Having a health insurance policy can also help relieve the financial strain and ensure you receive timely treatment without tension, whether you have recurring piles symptoms or require advanced therapy.
If you need assistance choosing the best health insurance for treating piles, contact Star Health. Our 24/7 customer service team is available to address your queries and provide guidance at all times.
Get in touch with us today!
Also Read:
→ What is the Procedure for Piles Laser Treatment
→ What are the Effective Medicines for Treating Pile Symptoms
→ How to Treat Piles Without Surgery