Hemorrhoids are normal dilations of arterial and venous blood vessels present since birth. If they are asymptomatic they should be considered normal.

The cases of pathological alteration of the hemorrhoids, for example those resulting from their outward flow or the formation of blood clots in the blood vessels, should more properly be called haemorrhoidal disease and not hemorrhoids.

The precise causes of the haemorrhoidal disease are not well understood but we know that they contribute hereditary factors and lifestyle .

Constipation and a sedentary lifestyle are among the main predisposing factors . Other conditions that affect the appearance of the disorder are: chronic use of laxatives, pregnancy and childbirth, obesity and consumption of foods that irritate the gastric mucosa.

Dietary rules to combat hemorrhoids

To combat hemorrhoids it is necessary above all to regularize the intestinal functionality and, therefore, to fight the constipation and to keep the faeces soft.

The control of body weight is also important.

Here are some simple eating habits that can help fight inflammation of hemorrhoids.

> Consume an adequate amount of food rich in dietary fiber .

In particular, foods such as kiwi, strawberries, pears, courgettes, spinach and whole grains can help to stimulate intestinal transit.

> Drink enough, then at least 1-2 liters of natural water a day.

> If you are overweight, follow a diet appropriate for recovering your weight, preferably by contacting a nutritionist.

> Consume foods that promote circulation, for example red fruits, and foods rich in zinc, which help to preserve the integrity of the venous walls.

In addition to following a correct diet, constant and regular physical activity is very important.

Foods to avoid in case of hemorrhoids

> It is advisable to reduce the consumption of foods and beverages that can irritate the intestine, in particular alcohol, coffee and spices.

> It is also preferable to limit the foods that tend to irritate the gastric mucosa, for example chocolate, fries and very spicy preparations.

An example of a daily diet to fight hemorrhoids?

A precise diet can only be recommended by an expert and therefore the following example is limited to providing simple general information on the diet against hemorrhoids .

Breakfast:

> 1 yogurt with whole grains and fruit.

Yogurt can contribute to the regularity of the intestine thanks to the presence of lactic ferments.

Mid-morning snack:

> 1 red fruit, for example strawberries or cherries, if the season is the right one.

But other types of fruit are also good: kiwi, mandarins, oranges, apples, pears.

Lunch:

> 1 pasta-based main course, for example pasta and zucchini, pasta with aubergines, pasta with mixed vegetable ragù, etc.

> Or 1 second of meat and / or fish cooked simply and accompanied by a side dish of vegetables, and a slice of bread or a small sandwich of durum wheat and wholemeal semolina.

Mid-afternoon snack:

> 1 fruit, maybe cooked. For example, a cooked apple.

Dinner:

> 1 soup soup, for example pasta in vegetable broth or a seasonal soup

> Or 1 simple and light second course, for example fillet of sole with steamed spinach and seasoned with a little salt and a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.