Avoid these foods if you are suffering from piles

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in and around the anal area that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements. Diet plays a crucial role in managing piles, and certain foods can worsen symptoms by causing constipation, inflammation, or irritation. According to a report by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), avoiding specific foods while including fibre-rich options can ease discomfort, prevent flare-ups, and promote healthier bowel movements. Being mindful of your diet is one of the simplest ways to manage this common and often distressing condition.


Foods that you should not eat if you are suffering from piles


Cheese
Cheese and other dairy products can contribute to constipation, which increases the strain during bowel movements. Hard cheeses, in particular, are low in fibre and can slow digestion, making stools harder and more painful to pass. Consuming too much cheese during a flare-up can also exacerbate bloating and discomfort around the anal region. Substituting cheese with plant-based alternatives or small amounts of low-fat dairy can help maintain softer stools and reduce piles-related pain.


Chips
Chips and similar salty snacks are high in fat and low in fibre, which can worsen constipation and cause bloating. The high salt content may also contribute to water retention, putting additional pressure on the veins around the anus. Frequent consumption of chips can aggravate piles symptoms and delay recovery. Opting for lightly salted nuts, seeds, or roasted vegetables instead of chips can provide a satisfying snack without worsening discomfort.


Fast food
Fast foods such as burgers, fries, and fried meals are heavily processed, low in nutrients, and lacking in fibre, making digestion slower and stools harder. This can increase strain during bowel movements and worsen piles symptoms. Additionally, fast food often contains high levels of unhealthy fats and salt, which can contribute to inflammation and bloating. Replacing fast food with home-cooked, fibre-rich meals supports smoother bowel movements and helps prevent flare-ups in the long term.


Ice cream
Ice cream is high in fat and low in fibre, which can slow digestion and worsen constipation. Eating ice cream during a piles flare-up may increase pain and pressure during bowel movements, making recovery more difficult. Additionally, the sugar content in ice cream can contribute to bloating and digestive discomfort. Swapping ice cream for fresh fruits or dairy-free frozen desserts can satisfy your sweet cravings while being gentler on your digestive system.


Meat
Excessive consumption of red meat or processed meats can lead to harder stools due to its low fibre content. Diets high in meat can slow bowel movements and increase strain on the anal veins, worsening piles discomfort. Including more plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, or tofu, can improve digestion, promote regular bowel movements, and reduce the severity of symptoms over time. Moderation and variety are key to a piles-friendly diet.


Prepared foods
Prepared foods such as frozen meals, snacks, and ready-to-eat dinners are often high in salt, fat, and preservatives, but low in fibre. These foods can contribute to constipation and increase pressure on inflamed veins, prolonging discomfort and flare-ups. Cooking meals from scratch or choosing minimally processed, fibre-rich options helps ease bowel movements and supports overall digestive health. Planning meals ahead of time can also prevent reliance on prepared foods that aggravate piles.


Processed foods
Processed foods like hot dogs, microwavable dinners, and packaged snacks are low in fibre and high in salt, fat, and preservatives, which can negatively affect digestion. Regular consumption may make stools harder and exacerbate inflammation, worsening piles symptoms. Opting for fresh, whole foods with natural fibre—such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—helps soften stools, reduces pressure on the anal veins, and supports long-term piles management.