Health & Wellness

What Food not to Eat After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Many of you must be curious about what food not to eat after hemorrhoid surgery. Maintaining a balanced and careful diet is essential during the healing process after hemorrhoid surgery. Making informed food decisions becomes even more essential, especially while nutrition supports healing and reduces discomfort.

It is really helpful in understanding how certain dietary choices can either help or hinder the recovery process.

By avoiding some of these foods, we can ensure that our bodies heal properly and quickly so that we feel back to our usual selves as soon as possible.

So, if you or someone you know is going through this procedure, be sure to check out this article for more information on what food not to eat after hemorrhoid surgery.

In This Article

  1. What Food not to Eat after Hemorrhoid Surgery

What food not to eat after hemorrhoid surgery

Here we have listed what not to eat after hemorrhoid surgery:

Food not to Eat After Hemorrhoid Surgery

1. Spicy foods

Spicy foods contain compounds like capsaicin, which can irritate the digestive tract and cause discomfort in the surgical area.

Additionally, they may increase peristalsis (muscle contractions), which could strain where the surgery was performed and potentially slow down healing time. So, while some spice might sound tempting – it’s best avoided for now!

2. Citrus Fruits

We all know citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients. Still, they can be problematic for some individuals after hemorrhoid surgery due to their acidic nature.

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes contain acid, which may cause irritation or discomfort if you have recently undergone this surgery.

3. Fried foods

What foods to avoid after hemorrhoid surgery are Fried foods. These are generally low in fiber and can lead to constipation, which may be a problem during recovery when straining should be avoided.

Additionally, eating fried food may cause increased gas production and bloating, which could put additional pressure on the area where the surgery was performed, causing discomfort.

4. Very Hot Foods

It’s best to avoid very hot foods after hemorrhoid surgery. This is because the area around the surgical site may still be sensitive and healing, making it more susceptible to irritation and discomfort from hot foods.

Additionally, inflammation caused by extremely hot food can slow recovery or cause additional pain.

5. Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated Drinks can introduce extra gas into your digestive system, which may lead to bloating and discomfort. After hemorrhoid surgery, it’s essential as the anal and rectal area may be sensitive – excessive gas could exacerbate any irritation or discomfort already present.

Additionally, sugary sodas, in particular, are high in caffeine and sugar content, which can cause dehydration – this can result in constipation, so it is best avoided after surgery when straining during bowel movements should be minimized!

6. Red Meat

I know you love your red meat, but eating after hemorrhoid surgery can be harmful. Switching things up might be best, and going for leaner protein sources.

Your digestive system may be more sensitive, and consuming heavily processed or fatty foods could cause discomfort. And as we all know, red meat isn’t known for its high fiber content, which can lead to constipation.

7. Dairy products

Dairy products may not be the best thing for you after hemorrhoid surgery. Even though they are generally safe, some individuals might experience digestive discomfort or increased irritation due to dairy consumption during recovery.

This is because of lactose intolerance and constipation, which can both make your healing process difficult and uncomfortable. So, if possible, try substituting other sources of calcium in your diet, like leafy greens or fortified plant-based milk, while recovering from this surgery!

8. Processed sugar

It’s essential to avoid processed sugar after hemorrhoid surgery. Consuming too much sugar can lead to inflammation and dehydration, which can delay healing.

It’s best for your body if you stick with natural sources of sweetness like fruit or honey instead. Take care and stay healthy!

9. Alcohol

Alcohol is a diuretic that can lead to dehydration, which may worsen constipation after hemorrhoid surgery.

Adequate hydration is essential for proper healing and maintaining regular bowel movements. Hence, if you’ve had recent surgery, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether or limit your intake as much as possible.

10. Refined grains

Refined grains like white bread, rice, and pasta are typically less fiber and nutrients than whole grains. To stay comfortable post-surgery, focus on foods that promote healthy digestion and bowel movements while minimizing discomfort.

Fiber is key for this! Eating more fruits & veggies (with the skin still on!), beans & legumes, and oats will help you get enough fiber without straining during bowel movements.

11. Foods That Cause Gas

It is best to avoid foods that cause gas. Eating these types of food can increase bloating and pressure in the abdominal area, making recovery more complex.

Many gas-producing foods can cause irregularity or constipation, which could strain the surgical area.

12. Legumes

Legumes are a great way to get healthy nutrients into your diet. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals that can help keep you feeling full for longer.

However, it’s essential to be aware that legumes contain complex carbohydrates, which may cause gas and bloating in some people – especially those recovering from hemorrhoid surgery.

13. Caffeine

Consume caffeine in moderation or avoid it altogether after hemorrhoid surgery. Caffeine can lead to dehydration, contributing to constipation, a condition we want to prevent or manage carefully during healing. So make sure you stay hydrated and take good care of yourself!

Q. How long after hemorrhoid surgery can I eat solid food?

Ans- After hemorrhoid surgery, the timing for reintroducing solid foods can vary. Listening to your body and following your surgeon’s recommendations as you heal is essential. If you’re not feeling nauseous or in discomfort, it may be time to start gradually incorporating solids into your diet.

Q. Does food affect hemorrhoids?

Ans- Yes, the food you eat can have an impact on hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal and anal area, and certain dietary factors can influence their development, symptoms, and management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a nutritious diet carefully after hemorrhoid surgery is essential for a quick and painless recovery. While every person’s body reacts differently, it’s usually best to proceed cautiously while eating particular foods or stay away from them to avoid issues and encourage healing.

Be sure to read:

  1. Foods to Avoid after Coronary Bypass Surgery
  2. Is Bright red Blood in Stool Serious
  3. Feet turning yellow on bottom
  4. Effects of eating raw rice everyday
  5. Eating pomegranate on empty stomach

References

  1. Strategies to Reduce Post-Hemorrhoidectomy
  2. Effect of red chili consumption on postoperative symptoms during the post-hemorrhoidectomy
  3. (PDF) Recent advances in the management of hemorrhoids

Dr Maria

MD. Board Certified physician. Fellowship In Family Medicine UK. 8 years of medical experience in Lifestyle-related health disorders. Graduated from AIIMS – All India Institute Of Medical Science, INDIA

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