Question: What should I eat if I have hemorrhoids?
Answer: Your doctor may recommend that you eat more foods that are high in fiber. Eating foods that are high in fiber can make stools softer and easier to pass and can help treat and prevent hemorrhoids. Drinking water and other liquids, such as fruit juices and clear soups, can help the fiber in your diet work better. Ask your doctor about how much you should drink each day based on your health and activity level and where you live.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 recommends a dietary fiber intake of 14 grams per 1,000 calories consumed. For example, for a 2,000-calorie diet, the fiber recommendation is 28 grams per day.

The amount of fiber in a food is listed on the food’s nutrition facts label. Some fiber-rich foods are listed in the table below.

A doctor or dietitian can help you learn how to add more high-fiber foods to your diet.
Question: What should I avoid eating if I have hemorrhoids?
Answer: If your hemorrhoids are caused by chronic constipation, try not to eat too many foods with little or no fiber, such as

cheese
chips
fast food
ice cream
meat
prepared foods, such as some frozen and snack foods
processed foods, such as hot dogs and some microwavable dinners