Whatever the underlying cause of hemorrhoids (genetic, constitutional or linked to lifestyles), the basics of Haemorrhoids prevention start with proper nutrition. It is necessary to adopt a diet that maintains regular intestinal activity, favoring in the diet foods that facilitate intestinal mobility.
The “ideal” diet to prevent hemorrhoids follows some basic principles.
They are to AVOID:
Abundant meals, fizzy drinks and beer, wine, strong coffees, spirits, tea, sausages, game, animal fats, crustaceans, aged and fermented cheeses, truffles, cocoa, fatty sweets, spicy or fatty condiments, salty, smoked, canned and pickled foods, salt, vinegar, baking soda or sodium citrate, hot spices and sauces, fried foods and gravies, garlic, onions, aubergines, peppers, radishes.
They are to be consumed with MODERATION:
Pasta with cheese and tomato, lean ham, roasted red meat, grated cheese, non-spicy sauces, tomatoes, citrus fruits, bananas, chestnuts.
The following are to be PREFERRED:
Pasta or rice seasoned raw with oil or butter, whole grains, bran, toasted bread, wholemeal breadsticks, lean and white meats, lean fish, eggs (not fried), vegetable broths, olive or seed oil, margarines, fresh butter, milk, yogurt, low-fat cheeses, vegetables, fresh ripe fruit, honey, soft drinks and still water.
It is therefore advisable to eat large portions of fruit and vegetables and whole-grain pasta and rice every day – foods rich in fiber that facilitate bowel movements.
It is also of particular importance to ensure adequate water consumption: you must drink at least two liters of water every day, because a diet rich in liquids guarantees soft stools and therefore easier to evacuate. It is recommended to consume prunes or papaya puree.
If this is not enough (or if it is not always possible) psyllium-based supplements are recommended (for example NeoPsillio Solgar).
To combat constipation, a condition that often causes hemorrhoids, it is advisable to use laxatives such as lactulose, eat foods rich in fiber and lead an adequate lifestyle. Drastic and irritating purgatives such as castor oil, frangula, cascara sagrada etc. are absolutely to be avoided.
It should be borne in mind that hemorrhoids are a frequent disease during pregnancy, because they arise as a result of changes that occur in the woman’s body.
Haemorrhoids prevention physical activity
In terms of Haemorrhoids prevention, even carrying out constant physical activity helps fight constipation and therefore the onset of hemorrhoids: we therefore recommend walking, swimming, some gymnastic exercises to tone the abdominal muscles and exercises for the pelvic floor.
Other useful tips
• Eliminate cigarette smoking altogether.
• Indulge the urge to defecate by avoiding prolonging the wait on the toilet longer than necessary
• Avoid lifting weights.
• Avoid sitting on hot surfaces.
• The use of inflatable plastic donuts for sitting is not recommended as they increase the downward pressure effect exerted on the hemorrhoids.
• Avoid very hot baths as they increase blood flow and worsen the swelling of hemorrhoids.
• Avoid wearing very tight clothing, as they promote frequent irritation and inflammation.
• It is not necessary to remain several hours in a row in the same standing or sitting position, because the return of venous blood is slowed down and therefore stasis can be highlighted.
• A noticeable and immediate relief can be obtained by making frequent bidets with warm water and a mild soap (even 3-4 times a day for a few minutes). It is important to wash the affected area very gently. Never rub vigorously as it could cause hemorrhoids to worsen.
