A high-fiber diet has plenty of benefits – one of which is the prevention and ease of one of man’s worst enemies: hemorrhoids. This itchy, painful condition is the bane of young and old alike. If you don’t have it, practice caution now. If you already have piles, use fiber to alleviate symptoms.
A main reason why people usually get hemorrhoids is constipation. All that straining and pressure is never good for your rectum. Although occasionally, we may experience ‘poo problems’, it’s possible to lessen – and even eliminate – the stress of going to the bathroom by simply upping our fiber intake.
With a little planning and this three-step process, YOU too can enjoy delicious, fiber-rich meals everyday!
Step 1: Know Your Food
You can’t have enough fiber if you don’t know where to look for them first. Try going online to research on the most common fiber-rich foods. You may also ask your doctor or dietician for their recommendations. A word of caution, ALWAYS coordinate with a medical professional before attempting to change your diet; particularly if you have other health conditions like diabetes.
There are four main food groups to look for: fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains. Check your local market for seasonal offerings, or try planting a few in your garden for a truly organic fix! These are are the top foods with high fiber content according to category:
Fruits : raspberries, apples, bananas, oranges
Vegetables: green peas, brocolli, sweet corn, tomatoes
Legumes: lentils, black beans, almonds, pecans
Grains and Pasta: spaghetti noodles, bran flakes, oatmeal, brown rice
Step 2: Buy and Divide
As high-fiber foods are perishable, you may shop for them every week or two. It’s better to have home-cooked meals as they are low in processed chemicals AND you know exactly what goes into your plate. If you love planning meals ahead, especially on weekends, you can have a fiber-rich meal by prepping these ingredients ahead of time – ready for cooking
For example: you may create fresh tomato sauce for spaghetti by combining tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper, and storing them in air-tight jars. Keep in the fridge for 5-10 days, OR in the freezer for 2-3 months. This allows you to just add meat and noodles for a healthy, yet yummy dinner that’s high in fiber.
Another suggestion is mixing peas, carrots, and corn. Separate them into Ziplock bags, then store in the freezer. Whip out a bag to sauté with butter and garlic for a sumptuous side dish; OR combine with brown rice for an authentic Asian fair.
Step 3: Follow-Through for 14 Days
Why 14 days? That’s the typical time for an average person to pick up a habit. Once your body gets used to eating high-fiber meals that you delightfully prepared at home, you won’t even think about it as a chore. You’ll simply do it everyday! Before you know it, your hemorrhoid problems would be over.
Of course, don’t forget to couple your new meal plan with the right exercise routine. Again, do ask your trainer OR doctor for the proper procedures. NEVER start a new diet or training routine without their OK.
Let 2015 be the year you conquer hemorrhoids. Start today, and feel amazing!
Post a Comment