Dietary habits associated with internal hemorrhoidal disease: a case-control study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Dietary Science
• Public Health

Background:

• The pathophysiology of internal hemorrhoidal disease is not fully understood but appears multifactorial.
• Dietary and lifestyle factors are suspected to increase the risk of developing internal hemorrhoidal disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify specific dietary habits associated with internal hemorrhoidal disease.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 50 patients with internal hemorrhoidal disease and 50 matched healthy controls.
• Dietary intake was assessed using 72-hour recall and food frequency questionnaires.
• Eating behavior was evaluated through a dedicated questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Patients consumed significantly less high-fiber foods (vegetables, fruits, cereals) compared to controls.
• Lower consumption of spicy foods like pepper and chili powder was observed in patients.
• Multivariate analysis indicated that daily fiber intake < 12g and water intake < 2L significantly increase the risk of internal hemorrhoidal disease.

Conclusions:

• Internal hemorrhoidal disease is more prevalent in individuals with low-fiber diets and reduced water intake.
• These dietary patterns are identified as precipitating factors for constipation, a near-universal symptom in patients.
• Dietary modifications focusing on fiber and hydration may play a role in managing or preventing internal hemorrhoidal disease.