Piles symptoms are often non-existent, and people don’t even know they have them.
But, the condition can lead to bleeding after passing a stool, an itchy anus, or a lump hanging down outside the anus.
It could also lead to a mucus discharge after passing a stool.
But, certain foods could help to prevent the condition.
Fruits and vegetables
The skins on fruit and vegetables contain insoluble fibre.
Brightly-coloured produce, including tomatoes, kale and leafy greens, all contain compounds called flavonoids.
Flavonoids help to protect against haemorrhoid bleeding.
“Fruits and vegetables provide valuable nutrients that help strengthen your immune system, and fluids that may help ease constipation,” said website LiveStrong.
“As fibre-rich foods, fruits and vegetables also add bulk to your stool and may reduce strain and pain during bowel movements.”
Whole grains
Whole grains contain more fibre than refined grain-based foods.
Long grain brown rice, popcorn, wild rice, wholegrain breads could all help to prevent piles.
“Swap white breads, pastas, and crackers for versions made with whole-grain flours, buckwheat, stone-ground cornmeal, or rye to boost the amount of insoluble fibre you’ll get,” said medical website WebMD.
Legumes
Legumes, which includes lentils, beans and split peas, are packed full of protein, micronutrients, and fibre, said LiveStrong.
“Increasing your fibre intake can increase stool softness and ease pressure on hemorrhoids during bowel movements,” it said.
Yogurt
Yogurts can contain beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics.
Probiotics promote digestive health and boosts the immune system.
The University of Maryland Medical Center said: “Probiotics, or ‘friendly’ bacteria, such as lactobacillus and bifidus, can help prevent and treat haemorrhoids.
“People who are extremely immunocompromised should speak to their physician before taking probiotics.”
Fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids – particularly water – could help to prevent unwanted haemorrhoids, said the NHS.
Caffeine and alcohol don’t count, though. You should avoid or cut back on both of them, it added.
Everyone should aim to drink six to eight glasses of water a day, the NHS said.
