Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, is a commonly occurring condition in which the veins in the anus and rectum area become swollen and inflamed. Hemorrhoids can cause itching, discomfort, and even bleeding.

Unfortunately, many of the foods we love can worsen hemorrhoids. In this article, we will discuss 25 foods that can make hemorrhoids worse, and why you should try to avoid them as much as possible.

1. Spicy foods

Spicy foods like chili peppers, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce can worsen hemorrhoids because they can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol is a diuretic that can dehydrate the body, which can make hemorrhoids worse. Additionally, alcohol can cause inflammation in the digestive tract.

3. Caffeine

Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, can cause dehydration and inflammation in the digestive tract, which can worsen hemorrhoids.

4. Red meat

Red meat is high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

5. Fried foods

Fried foods like french fries and fried chicken are high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

6. Dairy products

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can be difficult to digest and can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

7. Processed foods

Processed foods like crackers, chips, and snack foods are often high in fats and low in fiber, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

8. Chocolate

Chocolate can worsen hemorrhoids because it contains caffeine and can cause constipation. Additionally, the high sugar content in chocolate can cause inflammation in the digestive tract.

9. Refined grains

Refined grains like white bread, pasta, and rice are often low in fiber and can cause constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoids.

10. Sugary drinks

Sugary drinks like soda and sports drinks can cause dehydration and inflammation in the digestive tract, which can worsen hemorrhoids.

11. Citrus fruits

While citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are high in vitamin C and fiber, they can also be acidic, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

12. Onions and garlic

Onions and garlic can cause gas and bloating, which can put pressure on the digestive tract and worsen hemorrhoids.

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13. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

14. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are acidic and can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

15. Coconut milk

Coconut milk is high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

16. Processed meats

Processed meats like hot dogs and deli meats are often high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

17. Shellfish

Shellfish like clams and oysters can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

18. Avocado

While avocados are often considered a health food, they are high in fats and can be difficult to digest, which can cause constipation and worsen hemorrhoids.

19. Apples

While apples are high in fiber, they can also be acidic, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

20. Pineapple

Pineapple is acidic and can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

21. Blueberries

While blueberries are high in antioxidants, they can also be acidic, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

22. Peaches

Peaches are acidic and can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, worsening hemorrhoids.

23. Broccoli

Broccoli can cause gas and bloating, which can put pressure on the digestive tract and worsen hemorrhoids.

24. Corn

Corn is difficult to digest and can cause constipation, which can worsen hemorrhoids.

25. Cauliflower

Cauliflower can cause gas and bloating, which can put pressure on the digestive tract and worsen hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, it is important to avoid the foods that can worsen the condition. By avoiding the 25 foods listed above, you can relieve the discomfort and pain associated with hemorrhoids and prevent them from getting worse.