Anal fissure can bring a lot of pain and discomfort. Passage of hardened stool caused by constipation is one of the many factors that can lead to anal tear. For most colorectal surgeons, the primary treatment of treating anal fissures is by treating its cause. Ninety percent of people who have this condition usually do not require surgery but a more conservative measure such as treatment of constipation if it is the primary cause. To treat constipation, one must be able to increase fibre and water in diet. Avoidance of intake of constipating foods can also help. Dietary supplements and laxatives may also aid in addressing the problem.
According to the American Dietetic association, a person should have a 25 to 30 grams of fibre intake everyday. Basically, foods that can cause constipation have high fat content and low fibre content. Fibre can be found in various types of foods such as fruits, grains and vegetables. Fibre is a food component that the human digestive system cannot fully digest. This makes it easier for the stool to pass.
If you have an existing anal fissure, it would be best to avoid constipating foods such high fat snacks. High fat snacks include doughnuts, pizza, potato chips and fried foods. Processed and frozen meals are also considered constipating foods and should be avoided. If you have the cravings for salty snacks such as potato chips, it would be better to eat popcorn. Dried nuts and fruits are also healthier snacks that are rich in fibre.
Whole grain food are also the best source of fibre for anal fissure treatment. Prevent from eating too much food that are made from enriched flour. Enriched flour is also derived from whole grain however they are already highly processed. Due to the processing methods, the grains are already deprived of its natural fibre, vitamins and minerals. Therefore, when choosing for carbohydrate resources, make sure to include whole grain pasta, barley, buckwheat and brown rice.
Food that are high in sugar content are also not good for treatment of constipation and anal fissure. Sugary foods have low fibre content. Examples of such foods are ice cream, jellies, sweetened coffee, chocolates and candies. If you are craving for some sweets, it would be better to eat fresh fruits. Unpeeled fresh fruits are very rich in fibre.
Fatty meats do not have fibre at all. They are just rich in high saturated fats and bad cholesterol. If you cannot lessen your intake of meat in your diet, just make sure to choose lean type of meat. It is also best to cook them with low fat cooking techniques such as grilling and baking. Another healthy habit that you can do is to substitute meat with legumes such as beans for twice a week. This will add more fibre in your diet regimen.
For breakfast, cereals are the best source of fibre for anal fissure treatment. You can also add some fruits with the cereals to make it more palatable and healthier. Increasing fibre in diet is as equally important as increasing your daily water intake. Drink 8 glasses of water a day as a minimum. Water will help to flush down the fibre in your body and eventually will result to more regular bowel patterns
It is indeed balanced diet that leads to a healthier digestive tract which is the primary treatment and prevention for anal fissure. Eating a well-balanced diet will not only promote regular bowel patterns. It is also the key to achieving a healthier body and a more disciplined lifestyle.