The Role of Diet in Reducing the Impact of Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, or piles, are a common and often uncomfortable condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Unfortunately, this is often an area of the body that we are uncomfortable talking about.

According to John Hopkins, about half of us will suffer from the dreaded piles by the time we are 50. Indeed, many women develop haemorrhoids during pregnancy because of the pressure put on blood vessels in the pelvic area.

While factors such as genetics and lifestyle can contribute to their development, diet also plays a crucial role in both preventing and managing haemorrhoids. Here’s our take.

Understanding Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids occur when the veins in and around the rectum and anus become swollen, often due to increased pressure. This can result from straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, or chronic constipation. Symptoms may include pain, itching, swelling, and bleeding, which can range from mild to severe.

Foods to Include in Your Diet

The cornerstone of a haemorrhoid-friendly diet is fibre, which promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Incorporating the following foods can make a significant difference to your health and well-being:

• Fruits and Vegetables:
  Fresh produce such as apples, pears, berries, carrots, and leafy greens are excellent sources of dietary fibre. Fruits like prunes are particularly beneficial due to their natural laxative effect.
• Whole Grains:
  Replace refined grains with whole grain alternatives like oats, brown rice, quinoa, and wholemeal bread. These provide more fibre and support digestive health.
• Legumes:
  Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are high in fibre and can be easily added to soups, salads, or main dishes.
• Nuts and Seeds:
  Almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are great for adding extra fibre to your diet.

In addition, adequate water intake is essential when increasing fibre consumption. Fibre absorbs water to form soft, bulky stools, making hydration a vital component of a haemorrhoid-friendly diet.

Things to Avoid

Certain foods can aggravate haemorrhoid symptoms and should be limited:

• Low-Fibre Foods:
  Processed foods, white bread, and fast food lack fibre and can contribute to constipation.
• Spicy Foods:
  These can irritate the digestive tract and exacerbate haemorrhoid discomfort.

Excessive dehydrates the body and can lead to constipation, worsening haemorrhoid symptoms. It also weakens the blood vessels in the rectal area, making them more susceptible to swelling. Reducing alcohol consumption or avoiding it entirely can significantly improve symptoms.

The Rafaelo Procedure: An Effective Treatment for Haemorrhoids

For those who continue to suffer despite dietary and lifestyle changes, the Rafaelo procedure offers a modern, minimally invasive solution for haemorrhoids. This innovative treatment uses radiofrequency energy to target and shrink haemorrhoidal tissue.

The Rafaelo procedure is a convenient option with minimal discomfort. It typically takes less than an hour, and most patients can resume normal activities almost immediately. Unlike traditional surgical options, the Rafaelo procedure involves minimal downtime and has a lower risk of complications.

Find out more here.

By treating haemorrhoids at their source, the Rafaelo procedure provides long-term relief for many patients, especially when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.

The Benefits of Combining Diet and Treatment

While the Rafaelo procedure offers an effective way to address haemorrhoids, maintaining a haemorrhoid-friendly diet is also highly beneficial for long-term success. A balanced diet rich in fibre, along with adequate hydration and reduced alcohol intake, supports overall digestive health and reduces the likelihood of haemorrhoid recurrence.

Taking Control of Your Haemorrhoid Health

It’s important not to let embarrassment prevent you from seeking advice and help when it comes to haemorrhoids. At Cosmedics, we’ve got a strong track record in treating more persistent problems including the Rafaelo procedure. We’ll also provide advice on how to reduce the risk of piles developing in the future, including the best dietary choices for health and well-being.

Would you like to find out more? Contact our doctor-led clinic today.

The team of Consultant Colorectal Surgeons offer treatments for haemorrhoids, including banding and injection treatments as well as Rafaelo radio frequency They also offer treatment for anal fissures, anal skin tags and anal warts.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics

Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical treatments, carried out by GMC registered doctors and surgeons.  The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and anti-wrinkle injections/fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.

Call 020 7386 0464 or email enquiries@cosmedics.co.uk to book an appointment.