Is Chicken Good for Hemorrhoids? (Expert Answer)

Short Answer: Chicken is not particularly good for hemorrhoids. Because it has protein which is good, but also fat which can negatively affect hemorrhoids if consumed inappropriately.

Hemorrhoids is a condition that affects your anal region.

In hemorrhoids, your body experiences swelling of veins in the anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins.

This can lead to various health problems, such as pain, discomfort, bleeding, and potentially more serious complications like anemia or strangulated hemorrhoids.

One of the key factors in managing hemorrhoids is diet.

What you consume can affect your bowel movements and digestive health, which can impact your hemorrhoid symptoms and overall health.

To effectively manage hemorrhoids, you should consume fiber-rich foods like legumes, whole grains, and cruciferous vegetables and avoid low-fiber foods like cheese, chips, and processed meats.

Now, chicken is a source of lean protein.

People usually eat it cooked, often grilled, baked, or boiled.

Chicken is not particularly beneficial for hemorrhoids because it contains components that may exacerbate symptomsChicken, especially if not prepared properly, can be high in fat and difficult to digest, which can worsen hemorrhoid symptoms.

It’s important to note that while chicken itself is not inherently bad for hemorrhoids, the way it is prepared and consumed can have an impact.

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of chicken breast can give you approximately 165 calories, 31 grams of protein (62% of your daily needs based on a 50g protein diet), and 3.6 grams of fat (5.5% of your daily needs based on a 65g fat diet).

Protein can positively affect hemorrhoids by supporting tissue repair and muscle strength.

However, fat, especially if consumed in high amounts from fatty cuts or poorly prepared chicken, can negatively affect hemorrhoids by causing gastrointestinal distress.

Furthermore, chicken is a type of meat, and meat is neutral for hemorrhoids.

Because, while lean cuts can be part of a balanced diet, fatty cuts and improper preparation can worsen symptoms56.

That’s why I suggest you limit your chicken intake to avoid potential complications.

Stick to lean cuts and proper cooking methods to minimize digestive issues.

Also, you shouldn’t eat chicken with high fat or prepared with irritating spices if you are suffering from hemorrhoids to prevent exacerbating the condition.

Because these can cause pain and irritation in the anal area.

You can buy fresh chicken in your local market or can order it online.

Always choose skinless breasts or other lean cuts.

Because they are lower in fat and easier to digest.

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for longer periods.

Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and essential medical care is key to managing/dealing with hemorrhoids effectively.

I always recommend my hemorrhoid patients to follow a hemorrhoid-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.

Get a Customized Diet Plan

About the Author

Abdur Rahman Choudhury

Abdur Rahman Choudhury is a nutritionist in West Bengal, India, with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biochemistry.

He has done his diploma in nutrition from Fabulous Body Inc (US), and completed various certification courses from several universities. He also has considerable research experience in PCOS.

Abdur currently lives in India and keeps fit by weight training and eating mainly home-cooked meals.

Leave a Comment