One of the most common suggestions doctors give to hemorrhoid sufferers is to increase their consumption of vegetables and fruit, as they increase fiber and aid digestive metabolism. But are there really any fruits that are off-limits? Let's explore this further.
The most common cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the rectum and anus, which causes the veins in that area to dilate. If this persists for a long time, these veins can prolapse and protrude from the anus, becoming a palpable lump.
What is constipation?
One of the main causes of increased pressure in the rectum and anus is constipation. This occurs when a person has fewer than three bowel movements per week. The stool usually tends to be hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. Furthermore, symptoms of constipation are usually accompanied by bloating, pain during bowel movements, and a feeling of incomplete emptying after each bowel movement.
The main causes of constipation are insufficient fiber consumption, insufficient fluid intake, lack of activity, and side effects of certain medications. Daily fiber requirements can be met by increasing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and even taking fiber supplements if necessary. As a way to prevent or treat hemorrhoids, it turns out that there are several types of fruit that are not recommended for consumption because they can indirectly increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Fruits that are not recommended
When experiencing hemorrhoids, there are several fruits that are not recommended for consumption, especially in large quantities.
Orange
While citrus fruits are excellent for boosting the immune system due to their high vitamin C content, the acid in citrus fruits can irritate the digestive tract and worsen hemorrhoid symptoms. However, this can be addressed by choosing citrus fruits that are not too sour, allowing the digestive system to compensate.
Lemon
Just like citrus fruits, when experiencing hemorrhoids, it is best to reduce the consumption of acidic foods and drinks to reduce the risk of irritation to the digestive tract and the possibility of worsening the hemorrhoid condition.
Dates
Excessive consumption of dates is also not recommended for those with hemorrhoids. This is due to their high sugar content, which can increase the risk of constipation and worsen the condition.
grapes
Although it has an anti-free radical effect due to its antioxidant content, on the other hand, grapes also contain relatively high levels of sugar, so consuming them in large quantities can increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Apple
Although apples are high in fiber, they can trigger excess gas production, leading to bloating and worsening hemorrhoids.
Pear
Having a texture similar to an apple, it turns out that the impact on the digestive tract is also similar, namely stimulating excess gas production in the digestive tract and can worsen the condition of hemorrhoids experienced.
Unripe bananas
Although bananas are often recommended for constipation because they can help improve digestive metabolism, consuming unripe bananas tends to be more difficult to digest and can increase the risk of constipation and hemorrhoids.
However, living a healthy lifestyle by consuming a balanced diet with sufficient fiber, meeting daily fluid requirements, and exercising regularly can help maintain the body's metabolism, including the digestive system. Fruit consumption is relatively safe if consumed in sufficient amounts, so as not to disrupt the digestive system or even worsen hemorrhoids.
Written by Dr. Valda Garcia. Reviewed by Dr. Ernest Eugene
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