Avoid Red Hot Chilli Peppers if You Have an Anal Fissure

Chili pepper is a staple in every kitchen. It does wonders to the taste of dishes as well as to the body.

Chili peppers are good sources of vitamins and minerals. They are also rich in antioxidants.

Some of the health benefits of chili pepper includes weight loss and pain relief. Chili pepper is not good for everyone though.

The capsaicin content of chili peppers cause a burning sensation. Because of this, taking too much chili pepper is not recommended for people with gastric ulcer, GIT bleeding, GERD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures.

Anal fissures are cracks or tears in the lining of the anal canal and anus. Constipation, intense diarrhea, low-fiber diet consumption, vaginal childbirth, trauma to the anal area, and some inflammatory conditions increase one’s risk to have anal fissures.

This condition can cause pain and bleeding during or after passing stools. If left untreated, this may lead to infection and uncontrolled movement of bowel and gas.

A gastroenterologist may recommend medical treatments to treat the condition.

Treatments may include the following:

• High fiber diet
• Sitz bath
• Laxatives
• Topical medications like Nitroglycerin and Nifedipine
• Botox injection

Patients with chronic fissures do not benefit from medical treatments. Instead, they are advised to undergo surgery to repair the tears in their anus.

Foods to Avoid if You Have Anal Fissure

• Spicy Foods

Anal fissures can cause pain and itching. Consuming spicy foods, which include chili peppers can make these symptoms worse.

• Processed foods and high fat snacks

If you have anal tears, avoid eating processed foods and snacks like pizza and donut to help prevent constipation.

• Enriched flour

Foods with enriched flour like pasta, cereals, and breads have low fiber content. Consuming these foods can worsen constipation.

• Added Sugars

Sugar offers energy. But it is low in nutrients and fiber.

What to Eat Instead

To prevent constipation, physicians recommend a diet rich in fiber. There are two types of dietary fiber: soluble and insoluble.

Soluble fiber can be found in foods such as nuts, oatmeal, beans, blueberries, and apples. This helps reduce cholesterol levels in the body.

Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool and increases the movement of food from the stomach through the intestines. This type of fiber can be found in foods like leafy green vegetables, wheat bran, and whole grains.

Both types of fiber are needed by the body for digestion and prevention of diseases.

Some great food sources of fiber include:

• Citrus fruits
• Prune juice and prunes
• Oat bran
• Seeds and nuts
• Beans and peas
• Raw juice
• Whole grains like
• Wheat bran

Apart from consuming fiber-rich foods, it is also important to increase water intake to prevent dehydration and constipation. Drink eight or more glasses of water daily.

Engage in physical activities like walking, swimming, and biking. Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day will help keep you fit and healthy. It can also help you prevent constipation.

It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle even if you’re already treated to avoid recurrence.