At Texas Surgical Care in Kingwood, Texas, Dr. Ronald Ambe can help provide treatment, advice, and dietary tips to help you manage your hemorrhoids.
Foods for hemorrhoids
“Fiber and water” is the advice often given to those with hemorrhoids, and it sounds simple enough. However, it can be difficult to work these things into your diet, and it doesn’t teach you which specific foods to eat and which to avoid.
When you have hemorrhoids, it’s important to avoid inflammation and constipation. You want your stools to pass easily and on a regular basis. That’s where fiber and water come in. Water keeps things soft, while fiber holds them together.
Good sources of fiber include beans, lentils, and peas. Whole-grain bread, cornmeal, and wheat provide insoluble fiber, or roughage. Fruit is also a wise choice, especially fruits with thin skins like apples, pears, and plums. For breakfast, try to have a bowl of oatmeal, grits, or high-fiber cereal.
You should keep a reusable water bottle on hand wherever you go, and try to drink from it regularly. Set small goals, such as drinking at least three refills per day.
Foods to avoid
If something gives you digestive issues after eating it, you should probably avoid it. Eating spicy food can lead to diarrhea, and the capsaicin can irritate your rectum just as much as your mouth. You should also steer clear of processed foods, including:
- Fast food
- Frozen meals
- Pre-packaged food
- White bread, buns, and bagels
Dairy products like milk and cheese can also irritate your digestive system, especially if you suffer from lactose intolerance.
When to seek treatment
Even if you manage your hemorrhoids, you might reach a point where the issue requires intervention. Many people avoid treatment due to embarrassment, but this is unnecessary. Hemorrhoids are a common problem, and a specialist will have the experience to handle the problem professionally.
If you’re struggling with hemorrhoids despite maintaining a good diet, it might be a sign that you need to visit a doctor. Dr. Ambe can evaluate your hemorrhoids and suggest a treatment plan. If you require surgery, he can perform rubber band ligation or a hemorrhoidectomy.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ambe and his team by calling 832-280-6782, or request an appointment online.