How to prevent piles

Preventing piles is all about keeping unnecessary pressure off your abdomen. And, though you can’t guarantee they won’t return, making simple lifestyle changes can really help.

Some healthy lifestyle tips to help you prevent piles:

• Enjoy a diet rich in high-fibre foods, like brown-rice, wholemeal bread, whole-wheat pasta, plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and salads.
• Drink plenty of water, as hydration is key to warding off constipation.
• Keep salty, fatty and sugary foods to a minimum, as well as alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which can dehydrate you, leading to straining.
• Take regular gently exercise – like walking or swimming.
• Visit the loo when you need to, and once you’re there not staying too long! Extended periods of time with weight bearing down on your bum is the kind of pressure you want to avoid!