Thanks to this period of the year, with shorter days and lower temperatures, there is an increased risk of staying at home more often and being tempted by the appeal of the sofa and food. Especially for those suffering from hemorrhoids, however, this lifestyle could help exacerbate inflammation, which can increase the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. To avoid exacerbation of pain and similar complications, here is the advice of Professor Antonino Spinelli, head of the Operational Unit of ColoRectal Surgery at Humanitas Clinical Institute and professor at Humanitas University.
No laziness: practicing a constant physical activity that does not engage the abdominal musculature in great efforts, such as swimming, walking or doing gentle gymnastics, helps to control the inflammation of hemorrhoids. Physical activity and healthy nutrition in fact promote intestinal regularity and reduce the risk of constipation: it should not be forgotten that the difficult evacuation, with hard stools, increases abdominal pressure and blood flow into the vessels of the anal tissue with consequent likelihood of inflammation, hemorrhoid rupture and bleeding.
No to Efforts: Lifting weights, even at home or at work, keeping your standing position for a long time, as well as practicing some high-intensity sports, can put your abdominal muscles under stress. This can have consequences on the inflammatory status of the hemorrhoids and pain.
Limit irritating foods: during the cold season you are more inclined to binge eat or drink, also thanks to the numerous festivals that take place until spring. In this period it is better to limit the quantity and frequency with which alcohol is consumed and chocolate, sweets, spices, and sausages are eaten. It is better to reserve these foods for special parties or celebrations.
Yes to a healthy diet: a varied diet, rich in fruit and vegetables, with whole cereal grains, fish, white meat and legumes, which also takes into account a correct intake of liquids, promotes intestinal regularity and helps to control the inflammation of hemorrhoids.
