Should You Take Fiber Supplements for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids form when you put pressure on the veins in and around your rectum. That pressure could come from many different sources, but one common trigger is suffering from constipation, or straining to pass bowel movements. Now, changes in your diet can help soften stool, making it easier to empty your bowels and reducing strain on your rectum. But should you take fiber supplements for hemorrhoids? Here’s what you need to know.

Do Fiber Supplements Help with Hemorrhoids?

Taking an over-the-counter fiber supplement for hemorrhoids could help with prevention. Not only can fiber supplementation reduce your risk for constipation, this study shows that it can reduce your risk for hemorrhoid symptoms such as rectal bleeding by as much as 50%. However, when supplementing fiber, it’s very important to maintain sufficient fluid intake. Otherwise, the supplements may not offer sufficient benefits.

What is the Best Supplement to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids?

An over-the-counter supplement like Metamucil (made from psyllium husk fiber) is a great first choice. Unfortunately, some people will experience gas and bloating with this kind of fiber supplement for hemorrhoids. If that’s the case for you, try switching to a wheat dextrin supplement such as Benefiber to see if that’s easier on your digestive tract.

Can Metamucil Shrink Hemorrhoids?

While fiber supplements can help reduce your risk for hemorrhoids, and may help you reduce your symptom burden, they ae unlikely to shrink severe hemorrhoids. (Remember, hemorrhoids are graded on four levels. So, while Grade 1 hemorrhoids may resolve with lifestyle changes such as dietary supplements and increased fiber intake, grade 2, 3 or 4 hemorrhoids are unlikely to shrink without medical intervention.

What Shrinks Hemorrhoids Fastest?

Even when fiber supplements for hemorrhoids can shrink these swollen veins, the process can take time. Plus, as we mentioned earlier, grade 2, 3 and 4 hemorrhoids may not shrink with supplementation. So, what’s a faster way to shrink your hemorrhoids and resolve symptoms such as itching and bleeding? If you want relief without surgery or overnight hospital stays, we invite you to contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute contact the Texas Hemorrhoid Institute to learn more about HAE (hemorrhoid artery embolization.) This minimally invasive procedure is ideal for patients with internal grade 2-3 hemorrhoids, shrinking the veins by blocking their blood flow. When you come into the office, we can explore your candidacy and review all your treatment options.