Short Answer: Beans are good for hemorrhoids because they have dietary fiber, protein and antioxidants.
Hemorrhoids is a condition that affects your anus and lower rectum.
In hemorrhoids, your body has swollen veins in the anal canal that can bleed, itch, or cause pain.
One of the key factors in managing hemorrhoids is diet.
What you consume can affect your stool consistency, which can impact your hemorrhoids symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage hemorrhoids, you should consume foods rich in fiber like beans, lentils, nuts, whole grains, fruits and vegetables and avoid foods rich in fat like red meat, cheese, butter and fried foods.
Now, beans are legumes that are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber.
People usually eat them as part of soups, salads or stews.
Beans are good for hemorrhoids because they contain dietary fiber, protein and antioxidants.
Fiber can prevent constipation by adding bulk to your stool and making it easier to pass.
Protein can help repair the damaged tissues in your anus and lower rectum.
Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can worsen hemorrhoids.
One cup (198 grams) of cooked beans can give you about 15 grams of fiber (7 grams soluble and 8 grams insoluble), which is about 30% of your daily needs.
One tablespoon (8 grams) of peanut butter has about 4 grams of fiber (2 grams soluble and 2 grams insoluble), which is about 10% of your daily needs.
Peanut butter can positively affect hemorrhoids because it contains healthy fats that can lubricate your stool and reduce friction on your anal canal.
It also contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can protect your cells from damage.
Furthermore, beans are a plant-based food and plant-based foods are good for hemorrhoids.
Because they have less saturated fat than animal-based foods like red meat or cheese.
Saturated fat can increase inflammation and cholesterol levels in your body.
You can eat one cup (198 grams) of cooked beans per day safely.
More than that can cause gas or bloating due to the high amount of fiber.
That’s why I suggest you limit your intake to one serving per day to minimize these side effects.
Also, you shouldn’t eat beans if you have a history of allergies or intolerances to legumes or peanuts.
Because they may trigger an immune reaction or digestive problems like diarrhea or nausea.
You can buy fresh or canned beans in your local market or online.
Always choose organic or non-GMO varieties if possible.
Because they may have fewer pesticides or additives that could harm your health.
You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to six months.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing hemorrhoids effectively.
I always recommend my hemorrhoid patients to follow a plant-based-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being and enjoy a longer and healthier life.