What foods help hemorrhoids?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Robert William, MD · Written by Kevin Schwaner · Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
High-fiber foods help most by softening stool and reducing straining: vegetables and fruit with skins, whole grains like oats and brown rice, and beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds, alongside plenty of water. Limit low-fiber processed foods, excess alcohol, and very spicy foods during a flare. Aim for 25 to 38 grams of fiber daily, increased gradually.
Diet is the most powerful lever for hemorrhoids because it controls stool consistency. Fiber-rich foods, vegetables and fruit with their skins, whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread, and legumes, nuts, and seeds, bulk and soften stool so it passes without straining. Fluids are essential partners: without enough water, extra fiber can worsen constipation.
Just as useful is what to limit. Low-fiber processed and fast foods, excess alcohol (which dehydrates), and very spicy foods during an active flare can aggravate symptoms. Aim for roughly 25 to 38 grams of total daily fiber, increased gradually over two to three weeks to avoid gas and bloating, and top up with a fiber supplement if food alone falls short.
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Sources
- Alonso-Coello P, et al. Fiber for the treatment of hemorrhoid complications (systematic review & meta-analysis)
- NIH / NIDDK: Hemorrhoids
- ASCRS Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hemorrhoids
Related Questions
What is the best fiber for hemorrhoids? →How do you prevent hemorrhoids? →Can hemorrhoids go away on their own? →*Informational only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Any rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.