Avoiding hemorrhoids is far better than treating them once you have them. Keeping your stools soft and avoiding straining during bowel movements is the best way to prevent hemorrhoids. Here are the best ways to prevent hemorrhoids:
Adding more whole-grains, fruits, and vegetables to your diet will soften stools and increase bulk. This may help reduce straining, which can cause hemorrhoids. However, you should add fiber to your diet slowly to reduce the chances of excess gas.
Drinking plenty of water and other fluids (other than alcohol) throughout the day will help keep your stools soft. Six to eight glasses of water per day is sufficient for most people.
Most people don’t get enough fiber through their diet. The recommended amount of fiber is 20 to 30 grams per day. If you’re not getting enough fiber in your diet, consider taking an over-the-counter fiber supplement.
Drinking plenty of water is important when taking fiber supplements. Taking fiber supplements without adequate fluid intake could cause constipation or make it worse.
Holding your breath or straining when trying to pass a stool can cause hemorrhoids to form.
Waiting to pass a bowel movement could cause the stool to dry out and become hard to pass.
Even moderate exercise such as walking can help prevent constipation that leads to hemorrhoids. Staying active may also help with losing excess weight, which could be affecting hemorrhoid development.
Sitting for too long, especially on the toilet, increases the pressure around the anus and contributes to hemorrhoids.
Read more about hemorrhoid symptoms, causes, and treatment options or see if hemorrhoid banding is right for you.
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