Also known as piles, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum area, much like varicose veins. The hemorrhoids that develop inside the rectum are internal hemorrhoids, and the hemorrhoids that develop under the skin around the anus are external hemorrhoids. Irritation or itching in the anal area, severe pain or discomfort, bleeding, inflammation, and swelling around the anus are a few symptoms of hemorrhoids. Here’s a list of foods that trigger hemorrhoids.

1. Deep-fried and processed food
Processed and deep-fried items are foods that trigger hemorrhoids, as they are heavy and the digestive system takes long to digest them. They are basically empty calories, high in unhealthy fats and carbohydrates, have nearly no nutrients, and contain lots of salt and sugar. They contribute to constipation, leading to painful hemorrhoids.

2. Spicy foods
Spicy foods can worsen constipation and trigger hemorrhoids. Experts suggest that if you suffer from constipation or have a weak digestive system, avoid eating spicy food. Go light on sauces and spices as they ruin your system.

3. Chewing gum
Chewing gum is one of the foods that trigger hemorrhoids. If you swallow too much gum in a short time, it can stick to indigestible food and create a mass and can further block the digestive tract. This blockage will create constipation and trigger hemorrhoids. If you do chew gum, make it a point to spit it after some time. Children under the age of 8 should not be given chewing gums as they often tend to swallow them.

4. Unripe fruits
Unripe fruits have a bad image and are considered foods that trigger hemorrhoids. Unripe bananas contain high amounts of starch, making the digestion process difficult, causing constipation.

5. Alcohol
Alcohol is known to have a dehydrating effect on the digestive system. It also disrupts the digestive balance by depleting nutrients. Cut on your alcohol intake or refrain from having it if you suffer from digestion issues.

6. Refined grains
If you are having too much white rice, white bread, pasta, cookies, and bagels, it’s time to stop. No doubt these foods are satiating to your taste buds, but they are also contributing to hemorrhoids, as they have no bran or roughage in them. Switch to whole grains to improve your condition.

7. Caffeine
Caffeine has the same effect as alcohol. If a person is dehydrated, caffeine will cause constipation and will trigger hemorrhoids.

8. Iron and calcium supplements
Iron and calcium supplements are great for a healthy body but can cause severe constipation. It’s always good to consult a doctor before popping supplements.

If you are suffering from hemorrhoids, consult your dietician and work out a diet chart that can help you with the condition.