Constipation and HemorrhoidsA
bright red rectal bleeding not mixed with stool, is
usually the initial symptom of Hemorrhoids (or the
common bad spelling Hemmroids, Hemroids). Prolapse
occurs only with the first defecation and then
spontaneously decreases. A persistent anal itching
is a symptom of hemorrhoids. The pain occurs only
when there is an acute attack of inflammation and
edema with a prolapse, or when there is a
concomitant injury, like a fissure. Several
observations testify to the direct link between diet
and hemorrhoids. Rarely, in fact, this disease is
found in countries where the diet is high in fiber
and low in refined foods. An important component of
Hemorrhoids is constipation, due to the increased
effort required by defecation that increases
intra-abdominal pressure and impedes venous return.
Furthermore, the increased pressure increases pelvic
congestion that can weaken the vein wall,
facilitating the formation of Hemorrhoids.
More fibers
Ultimately, a diet rich in fiber is the most
effective way to prevent hemorrhoids. Whole grains,
legumes, vegetables, and fruits promote intestinal
peristalsis.
Many components of the fibers attract water and
feces become soft and thick, easy to pass.
Also vegetables and fruit contain many nutrients
that increase the integrity of the veins, in
particular, are important bioflavonoids, vitamins A,
C, E, B complex and zinc. Blueberries, cherries and
blackberries are rich in bioflavonoids, apricots,
melons, pumpkins, carrots and cranberries contain
vitamin A. Citrus, strawberries, currants, broccoli,
Brussels sprouts, watercress and spinach contain
vitamin C, whole grains and brewer's yeast flakes
contain vitamins B, while zinc is present in oats,
oil seeds, wheat, buckwheat, hazelnuts,almonds,
peas, parsley, garlic and carrots.
In case of hemorrhoids, we should balance - as
well as the intestine - the liver and spleen, two
organs that contribute to the health of veins and
thus also the hemorrhoidal plexus. If the energy of
the spleen is weak, it doesn't nourish the
connective tissue and, consequently, the veins are
easily exhausted. It is, therefore, important to
avoid, as well as refined foods, sugar (the spleen
in fact suffers from an excess of sugar, and is
nourished and rebalanced by the consumption of
cereals), fatty foods and those that heat too much,
such as sausage, red meat, milk, cheese, chocolate
and coffee. We should reduce the consumption of
meat, possibly replacing the red with white meat or
better still give preference to fish and legumes as
protein source. Also to avoid overloading the liver
we should prefer green vegetables and reduce
consumption of Solanaceae, including tomatoes,
peppers and eggplants.
Miso, seaweed and mochi
Some foods, proposed by macrobiotic, can play an
effective role in treating and preventing
hemorrhoids. A food particularly good for the the
veins is miso, made from fermented soybeans and
barley, rice or wheat. Miso has a salty flavor, is
used mainly as a condiment for soups. In addition to
cleanse the liver and improve blood circulation,
restores intestinal flora, and is indicated for
constipation and flatulence. Thanks to the
properties of alkalizing food, is indicated for
diseases like arthritis, and finally energy
invigorates the kidney and thus improves the overall
tone. Although algae are an excellent food in the
treatment of hemorrhoids. Additions to the cooking
of legumes and cereals, eliminate internal heat and
improves intestinal peristalsis, thanks to the slime
that attract water and pat the intestinal mucosa. In
particular, the kombu is good for the gut, while the
wakame is best for the liver. The first is added to
boiled vegetables, the second in soups. Another very
suitable food to fortify the spleen (Above all good
and tonic) is Mochi. These are small cakes of sweet
rice that can be heated over low heat.
