Fiber makes stools easier to pass.

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1.

It also slows digestion, so you feel full longer.

woman shopping for vegetables on a high fiber diet

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Root Vegetables

Tubers like sweet potato, carrot, and rutabaga contain fiber as well as resistant starch.

Eggplant

Eggplant is rich in fiber and made up of 90% water.

It also contains chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant compound associated with preventing and alleviating symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are rich in soluble fiber.

Some whole-grain foods to try:

6.

Citrus Fruits

Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons contain fiber and they’re also rich in bioflavonoids.

Apples

In addition to being rich in fiber, apples contain pectin.

This compound softens stools, easing constipation and symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Prunes

Prunes are rich in sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is digested and fermented by gut bacteria.

This process helps increase the weight and frequency of stools, which can treat and prevent constipation.

Legumes

Legumes like beans have plenty of soluble and insoluble fiber.

Mix up your meals with the following options:

11.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Or, add a handful of walnuts,sunflower seeds, pine nuts, or pistachios to a salad.

It’s also important to drink enough caffeine-free and nonalcoholic fluids when you increase your fiber intake.

Water

While not food per se, water is also essential for hemorrhoid relief.

Staying hydrated will help prevent constipation by ensuring your stools stay soft and easy to pass.

The USDA recommends a dietary fiber intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories consumed.

For example, for a 2,000-calorie diet, the fiber recommendation is 28 grams per day.

In addition to diet, home treatments like warm baths and ice compresses can help provide hemorrhoid relief.

See your healthcare provider if you have new or worsening symptoms.

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