Preventing Hemorrhoids: Lifestyle Changes and Dietary Habits for Colorectal Health

Hemorrhoids are a very common condition. As many as 75% of Americans will suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives and about half of them will be over the age of 50. At Digestive Diseases Consultants in New Lenox, IL, we offer our patients the information and suggestions they need to achieve colorectal health.

Before you can make lifestyle changes or change your dietary habits, you need to recognize what it is that is causing your hemorrhoids.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

There are two types of hemorrhoids, internal and external. A hemorrhoid is an inflamed vein near the anus or lower rectum. Mostly, they are not dangerous, but they can be uncomfortable. 

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are caused by a variety of things, most of which you have control over. The causes include:

• Sitting too long on the toilet-don't turn it into a reading location
• Straining to pass feces
• Being constipated or having diarrhea all the time
• Eating a low-fiber diet
• Being over 50 or pregnant

Lifestyle Changes

Your doctor will make lifestyle recommendations that can help you prevent getting hemorrhoids in New Lenox, IL, or prevent a reoccurrence.

• Drink more water or other non-alcoholic beverages 
• Add more fiber to your diet
• Consider taking a fiber supplement
• Avoid sitting for long periods
• Get up and exercise
• Spent less time sitting on the toilet
• Go when you feel the urge

Dietary Habits

Please take a look at your diet. If you're not eating a lot of fruits vegetables or whole grains, you need to find ways to add them to your diet. Brussels sprouts, kale, collard greens, and sweet potatoes are all high in fiber. Apples, pears, berries, and pomegranates can help add the needed fiber. Dry beans are also something to add. Increase the amount of water you are drinking. It can help to soften your stools.

If you are trying to prevent or recover from Hemorrhoids, Digestive Diseases Consultants in New Lenox, IL are here to help. Give our office a call at (815) 937-5200 today to make an appointment.