Many people think of hemorrhoids and constipation as small, uncomfortable problems that just happen from time to time.
However, doctors now say that modern habits—especially what we eat and how we behave in the bathroom—are making these issues much worse.
Recently, the American Gastroenterological Association released updated guidelines to help people understand how daily choices can affect digestive health.
One of the main messages from doctors is simple: keeping your bowel movements regular is the best way to prevent hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower part of the body, and they often develop when people strain too much during bowel movements. This straining is often linked to constipation, which is strongly affected by diet.
Fiber plays a key role in keeping digestion smooth. It helps stool stay soft and easier to pass, which reduces pressure during bathroom use. Health experts recommend that men should aim for about 38 grams of fiber each day, while women should aim for around 25 grams.
However, most people do not reach these levels. Modern diets often focus heavily on protein, especially from meat, while ignoring fiber-rich foods.
High-protein diets have become popular in recent years, especially for weight loss and fitness. While protein itself is important for the body, problems arise when people replace balanced meals with large amounts of meat.
Meat does not contain fiber, so when it becomes the main part of a diet, digestion can slow down. This can lead to constipation and increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Doctors emphasize that the problem is not protein itself, but what is missing from the diet. Foods such as beans, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts provide the fiber and nutrients needed for healthy digestion. Without these foods, the body struggles to maintain regular bowel movements.
However, diet is only part of the issue. Bathroom habits also play a major role. Many people now bring their phones into the bathroom and spend long periods scrolling through social media or reading messages. This behavior may seem harmless, but it can actually increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
When a person sits on a toilet for a long time, the body position causes extra pressure in the lower area. Gravity increases blood flow to that region, and sitting too long can lead to swelling of blood vessels. Doctors now recommend that people should not sit on the toilet for more than five minutes. If nothing happens, it is better to stand up and try again later.
Another simple tip is to change body position while using the toilet. Using a small footstool or placing the feet on a raised surface can help mimic a squatting position. This position makes it easier for the body to pass stool without straining.
If problems continue, the guidelines also explain treatment options. Over-the-counter creams can help reduce discomfort for a short time. In more serious cases, doctors may use simple procedures to shrink the swollen tissue. Warm water baths may also provide relief, although there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness.
Doctors also stress the importance of not ignoring serious symptoms. If someone notices bleeding, they should not assume it is just hemorrhoids. It could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as colon cancer, which is becoming more common even in younger adults.
This guidance is based on updated recommendations from the American Gastroenterological Association. It reflects growing concern that modern lifestyles are affecting digestive health in ways people may not realize.
Overall, the study findings suggest that small daily habits can have a large impact on gut health. A balanced diet with enough fiber, combined with healthy bathroom habits, can greatly reduce the risk of discomfort and disease.
The research highlights the need for better public awareness about how lifestyle choices influence digestion. While the recommendations are simple, following them consistently could prevent many common health problems.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about the crucial link between diet, gut health, and the immune system and results showing that Low-gluten, high-fiber diets boost gut health and weight loss.
For more information about gut health, please see recent studies about Navigating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with diet and results showing that Mycoprotein in diet may reduce risk of bowel cancer and improve gut health.
Source: American Gastroenterological Association.
