The Role of Diet and Lifestyle Changes in Piles Treatment: Insights from Pune Doctors
Piles, or hemorrhoids, are an increasingly common condition that causes swelling and discomfort in the anal region. While surgical treatments are available, many doctors—especially those in Pune—emphasize that diet and lifestyle changes play a crucial role in both the prevention and treatment of piles. A well-balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can significantly alleviate symptoms, improve recovery, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
In this article, we’ll explore how diet and lifestyle modifications can help manage piles, with insights from Dr. Suhasini Jadhav, a leading piles doctor in Pune.
Understanding Piles: Causes and Symptoms
Piles occur when the veins around the anus or in the lower rectum become swollen and inflamed. This can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms, including:
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Pain and discomfort, especially during bowel movements
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Bleeding, typically bright red blood
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Itching and irritation
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Prolapsed hemorrhoids, where swollen veins protrude outside the anus
Though these symptoms can be managed with medications and treatments, dietary changes and a healthier lifestyle are foundational to long-term relief and prevention.
The Role of Diet in Piles Treatment
The food you eat plays a significant role in preventing constipation, one of the primary causes of piles. Dr. Suhasini Jadhav, a trusted piles doctor in Pune, often advises her patients to adopt dietary changes that can reduce the strain during bowel movements and promote digestive health.
1. High-Fiber Diet
A fiber-rich diet is perhaps the most important dietary change for people with piles. Fiber softens stool, making it easier to pass, and reduces the need to strain during bowel movements. Straining is a major contributor to the formation and worsening of hemorrhoids.
Foods rich in fiber include:
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Whole grains like oats, barley, and brown rice
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Fruits such as apples, pears, and berries
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Vegetables like spinach, kale, carrots, and broccoli
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Legumes, beans, and lentils
Dr. Jadhav recommends gradually increasing fiber intake to avoid bloating or gas. It’s also essential to drink plenty of water when increasing fiber to help move it through the digestive system smoothly.
2. Hydration
Dehydration can lead to constipation and exacerbate piles. Drinking adequate water throughout the day helps soften the stool and makes bowel movements easier to pass. Dr. Jadhav advises patients to aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, depending on individual needs.
3. Avoiding Low-Fiber and Processed Foods
Refined foods like white bread, pastries, and processed snacks often lack fiber, making them more difficult to digest and leading to constipation. Dr. Jadhav suggests limiting or avoiding such foods to promote bowel regularity and prevent piles from getting worse.
Lifestyle Changes to Manage and Prevent Piles
In addition to dietary modifications, several lifestyle changes can complement piles treatment. Many of these changes help reduce the strain on the rectal veins and promote overall digestive health.
1. Regular Exercise
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements. Exercise stimulates the intestines, helping food pass through the digestive system more efficiently and preventing constipation.
Activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can significantly improve circulation, reduce pressure on the veins, and help with the overall management of piles. Dr. Jadhav encourages her patients to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity every day.
2. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Straining
Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the rectal veins, making piles worse. Dr. Jadhav advises avoiding sitting on the toilet for extended periods. It’s also essential to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can worsen hemorrhoids.
Taking regular breaks during long periods of sitting (such as at work) to stand, stretch, or walk can significantly reduce the pressure on your pelvic region.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can increase the pressure on the veins in the lower rectum, contributing to the formation of hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent piles and reduce their severity.
How Dr. Suhasini Jadhav Approaches Piles Treatment
As one of Pune’s leading piles doctors, Dr. Suhasini Jadhav often incorporates dietary counseling and lifestyle modifications into her treatment plans. She believes that while medical procedures and medications are important, lasting relief comes from a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of piles, such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and excessive straining.
Comprehensive Care for Piles
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Dietary Guidance: Dr. Jadhav works closely with her patients to develop a personalized dietary plan that includes high-fiber foods, hydration, and balanced meals to improve digestion and prevent constipation.
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Behavioral Counseling: In addition to advising on dietary changes, she offers practical tips for ergonomic adjustments, regular exercise routines, and ways to avoid straining during bowel movements.
By combining medical treatments (like laser therapy, rubber band ligation, or hemorrhoidectomy when necessary) with dietary and lifestyle changes, Dr. Jadhav helps her patients achieve lasting results and avoid future flare-ups.
The Importance of Timely Intervention
Although dietary and lifestyle changes can help prevent and manage mild cases of piles, some patients may require medical intervention. If lifestyle changes alone do not provide relief, or if symptoms persist, it’s crucial to consult a qualified piles doctor in Pune like Dr. Suhasini Jadhav.
Early intervention can help prevent complications such as thrombosed hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, or persistent bleeding, which may require more intensive treatments.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Piles Treatment
Managing piles effectively requires a combination of dietary improvements, lifestyle modifications, and, when necessary, medical treatments. Dr. Suhasini Jadhav, a trusted piles doctor in Wadgaon Sheri, Pune, believes that prevention is key. By following a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing piles or experiencing a recurrence.
If you’re struggling with piles or need expert advice on managing your condition, consulting Dr. Jadhav for a tailored treatment plan can help you achieve relief and long-term wellness.

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