Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal canal that cause severe discomfort and itching, often with associated pain. Most often treated using over-the-counter creams and ointments; however, more natural options may also be available.
Diet and exercise can play an essential role in treating or preventing hemorrhoids. Dietary changes that will best address hemorrhoids include increasing fiber intake and drinking plenty of water to avoid constipation, which aggravates hemorrhoids.
Do Hemorrhoids Dietary Supplement Work?
Effectiveness
Hemorrhoids are an uncomfortable yet often itchy condition affecting veins in the anal canal or just outside it, usually appearing as clumps of swollen veins in the anal canal or just outside it.
Though often harmless and painless, hemorrhoids can sometimes become bloody at times; typically these issues will go away on their own after some treatment strategies have been tried, including increasing fiber intake and lifestyle modifications such as not straining during bowel movements; otherwise over-the-counter (OTC) suppositories can provide soothing comfort while soothing pain and itching simultaneously.
Hemorrhoids dietary supplements that work include flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and blood vessel strengthening properties. Rutin and hesperidin in particular are extremely effective; you can find both of them in capsule form or products such as micronized purified flavonoid fraction Daflon which combines these flavonoids.
Other natural ingredients with similar advantages include witch hazel, which has astringent qualities, and aloe vera, which soothes. An herbal remedy called Triphala may reduce bleeding and pain.
People suffering from hemorrhoids should supplement these dietary supplements with increased physical activity and an increase in fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains to provide enough soluble fibers and water intake.
They should avoid fatty or sugary food items while drinking plenty of fluids daily – it would also be wise to exercise regularly, have regular bowel movements and use suppositories to ease itching and pain associated with hemorrhoids.
Benefits
Hemorrhoids (also referred to as piles) occur when veins in the anus and lower rectum become inflamed and irritated, often due to eating certain foods that exacerbate symptoms. Dietary changes, including increasing fiber and water intake while eliminating foods which worsen symptoms can often help control hemorrhoids; additionally taking vitamins such as C or Rutin may aid healing efforts as well.
Constipation, which can aggravate hemorrhoids, should be avoided at all costs. A diet high in fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids; processed meats, fried foods and salty snacks should be limited or avoided altogether for best results. Caffeinated beverages and alcohol can dry up stool further exacerbating symptoms.
Hemorrhoids are most frequently caused by increased pressure placed upon the veins in the anus and anal canal, leading to their swelling and formation of blood clots. This pressure may come from long periods of sitting on the toilet or straining during bowel movements; additionally, being overweight, having chronic cough, pregnancy or having family history of hemorrhoids can all play a part.
Hemorrhoids can be painful and embarrassing, yet rarely dangerous. Most people can find relief using simple home treatments like fiber and sitz bath. But if this doesn’t help, speaking to your physician about more aggressive therapies may help – they could suggest an ointment or over-the-counter remedy that eases both pain and itching.
Recommendations
Creams, ointments and suppositories available over-the-counter only provide mild relief of hemorrhoids; they may shrink hemorrhoids or relieve itching symptoms but don’t prevent new ones from forming or stop bleeding.
Avoiding the causes or worsening factors that contribute to hemorrhoids is the key to treating them effectively, such as prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements, as well as constipation which increases pressure in anal areas.
Drink plenty of water to facilitate easier stool passage, and consume high-fiber foods (particularly whole grains, vegetables, fruits legumes and nuts) including Metamucil or its generic equivalent to add fiber into your diet more easily.
Sour foods such as unsweetened yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut may help prevent an overgrowth of yeast (candida) in the colon that contributes to hemorrhoids. Furthermore, eating foods rich in bioflavonoids such as berries, wheat germ and green leafy vegetables can strengthen blood vessels and promote healing.
If at-home treatments don’t help, speak to your doctor. There are various medical procedures he or she can perform in office that may reduce hemorrhoids by cutting off their blood supply; failure of these treatments could result in surgical removal; however he or she may advise waiting and seeing if your symptoms resolve on their own.
Side Effects
Hemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles, result from increased pressure being applied on veins near the anus and rectum area, much like varicose veins in legs. This pressure causes blood vessels to inflame and swell resulting in itching or pain that may also itch or be painful.
Most hemorrhoids do not need medical intervention but can often be managed through diet changes, home remedies or supplements such as Hesperidin which has been proven to reduce inflammation while strengthening capillaries while improving circulation.
To ease symptoms, drink plenty of water and consume high-fiber foods, particularly those rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, like salad greens, apples, prunes, beans, berries, wheat/oat bran and whole grains.
This will help alleviate constipation and straining during bowel movements as well as any itching or discomfort experienced. High-fiber foods include salad greens, apples, prunes beans berries wheat/oat bran and whole grains as an example.
Avoid processed meats, which are low in fiber and may contribute to constipation. Also try to limit salty and alcoholic drinks which dehydrate your body and can aggravate hemorrhoids further, along with beverages which dehydrate it further and can increase irritation and bleeding.
When adding fiber gradually as sudden increases may lead to gas and bloating; to help avoid future hemorrhoids it may be worthwhile taking multivitamin daily that contains hesperidin and rutin for improved circulation; should symptoms persist, consult your physician who may recommend colonoscopy – an examination using lighted tube that examines your rectum for examination by means of light beam.
What Are the Most Common Dietary Supplements Used to Treat Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, the distended and inflamed veins around or just inside the anus, can be a source of pain, discomfort, and bleeding. While dietary changes are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing future occurrences, certain supplements have shown potential in alleviating hemorrhoids.
Here are some dietary supplements worth considering:
Psyllium: Found in popular supplements like Metamucil or Konsyl, psyllium is a soluble fiber that has been found to reduce the risk of rectal bleeding caused by hemorrhoids by 50%. It can also provide overall symptom relief.
Methylcellulose: Another soluble fiber option available in supplements such as Citrucel, methylcellulose can help soften stools and reduce constipation, effectively easing hemorrhoid symptoms.
Calcium polycarbophil: Included in supplements like Fibercon, calcium polycarbophil is a fiber supplement that adds bulk to stools, reducing constipation and alleviating hemorrhoid symptoms.
Witch hazel: Known for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, witch hazel is a plant that can be applied topically to hemorrhoids. It may help contract blood vessels in the area and provide relief from symptoms.
Turmeric: With its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric, a spice found in supplements like Nature’s Bounty Turmeric 1000 mg with Bioperine, shows promise in managing hemorrhoids.
Supplements as Symptom Management, Not a Cure
It’s important to understand that while dietary supplements can help manage symptoms like swelling, pain, and bleeding, they cannot cure hemorrhoids.
It is crucial to maintain a healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Adequate hydration through water and other liquids like fruit juices and clear soups can also enhance the effectiveness of the fiber in your diet.
Consultation with a Healthcare Provider
If you are experiencing hemorrhoids, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any dietary supplements. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure that the supplements align with your specific needs and overall health.
Remember, a comprehensive approach that combines dietary modifications, fluid intake, and medical advice is key to managing hemorrhoids effectively.
