If you’re like most people, you probably don’t want to think about hemorrhoids. But the truth is, they’re a common problem that many people deal with on a daily basis. There are three different kinds of hemorrhoids, namely, internal hemorrhoids, prolapsed hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. And if you’re not careful, you could be one of them. In this blog post, we will discuss six tips for preventing hemorrhoids from developing in the first place.

Eat Foods High in Fiber

A diet high in fiber can help keep things moving through your digestive system, reducing the risk of constipation and diarrhea — both of which can lead to hemorrhoids. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Aim for at least 25 grams of fiber a day.

Don’t Strain

Straining during bowel movements is a common cause of hemorrhoids. Strain puts extra pressure on veins in the anal area. A build-up of that pressure can lead to hemorrhoids.

Drink Enough Water

Dehydration can lead to constipation, which is a major cause of hemorrhoids. Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water per day to keep your body adequately hydrated.

Don’t Fight the Urge to Go

There’s a reason you feel the urge to go when you do. Your body is telling you that it’s time to let go of whatever is in your bowels—straining to hold it in puts unnecessary pressure on your anal area, which can lead to hemorrhoids.

Exercise

Nothing beats regular exercise when it comes to hemorrhoid prevention. Exercise helps to keep your digestive system functioning properly, which reduces your chances of developing constipation and straining during bowel movements. If you already have hemorrhoids, exercise can help to reduce inflammation and pain.

Avoid Long Periods of Sitting

Sitting for long periods of time puts unnecessary pressure on your veins and can lead to the development of hemorrhoids. If you have a sedentary job, make sure to take frequent breaks and move around as much as possible. Even simple things like standing up and stretching can make a big difference. Hemorrhoids are a common problem, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer from them. There are many ways to prevent hemorrhoids, most of which are simple lifestyle changes you can make today. Keep these six tips in mind to help keep your bottom healthy and free of pesky hemorrhoids. Do any of these tips work for you? Let us know in the comments.