Did you know that it is possible to prevent hemorrhoids?
Today we address a problem that can be very uncomfortable, embarrassing and painful, but fortunately it has a solution and, best of all, it can be avoided.
Here are the 8 best habits to prevent hemorrhoids, which you can start doing now.
1. Maintain a diet rich in fiber
One of the most important steps to prevent hemorrhoids is to ensure that our diet is rich in fiber.
Fiber helps regulate intestinal transit and prevent constipation, one of the main causes of hemorrhoids.
As advice:
- Include fruits such as apples, pears and raspberries in your diet, as well as vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, lettuce and carrots.
- Opt for whole grain breads and cereals instead of refined products.
2. Hydrate yourself properly
Water helps soften stool, making it easier to pass and reducing the need for straining during evacuation.
This means that drinking enough water is essential for good digestive health.
In this case, the general guideline is to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and avoid dehydrating drinks such as alcohol and caffeine.
3. Do not delay evacuations
Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to harder, harder-to-pass stools, which increases pressure in the rectal area and can cause hemorrhoids.
- Listen to your body and go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need.
- Try to have a bowel movement at the same time every day to help regulate your digestive system.
4. Avoid excessive effort
Straining during bowel movements can cause or worsen hemorrhoids. To avoid this, make sure you have regular, soft bowel movements.
Two tips that can help you reduce the effort when going to the bathroom are:
- Place a stool under your feet while you are on the toilet to help align the colon and facilitate the passage of stool.
- When you go to the bathroom, try to relax. It’s not okay to rush or try too hard.
5. Regular exercise, the best way to prevent hemorrhoids
Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and promotes good digestion, which can prevent constipation and, therefore, hemorrhoids.
So:
- Incorporate some moderate physical activity, such as walking, swimming or cycling.
- To avoid a sedentary lifestyle, get up and move at least once an hour if you have a desk job.
6. Maintain good anal hygiene
Be sure to clean the area gently after each bowel movement to help prevent hemorrhoids and irritation in the area.
- Instead of dry toilet paper, consider using alcohol-free wipes. If possible, wash the area.
- Be sure to dry the area gently to avoid irritation.
7. Avoid lifting heavy weights
Lifting heavy objects can increase pressure in the rectal region and contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
- If you must lift something heavy, bend your knees and not your waist to avoid strain on your lower body.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help with lifting heavy objects.
8. To prevent hemorrhoids you must control stress
Stress can affect your digestive system and contribute to constipation and hemorrhoids.
In this sense, practicing stress management techniques can be beneficial.
- Practices like meditation and yoga can help reduce stress and improve digestion.
- Sleep correctly, enough and on a schedule
Adopting these healthy habits can be an effective strategy to prevent hemorrhoids and maintain good rectal health.
But what happens if you already deal with hemorrhoids and don’t know how to solve the problem?
At Innova Cirugía we can help you!
If you schedule an appointment with our experts, we can discuss together which of the hemorrhoid treatments is most suitable for you.
We also recommend that you read our article “How to cure hemorrhoids: practical step-by-step guide.”
