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| - Last Updated on July 30, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that consuming onion in the evening cause piles. We fact checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A thread post by the name @ramane.aarya27 claiming that consuming onions in the evening can lead to piles. It suggested that the timing of onion consumption may affect piles development.
Fact Check
What are haemorrhoids (piles)?
Haemorrhoids also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in the rectal or anal area. They can be internal, inside the rectum, or external, under the skin around the anus. Symptoms include itching, pain, bleeding during bowel movements, and swelling. Haemorrhoids often result from increased pressure due to factors like straining during bowel movements, anal intercourse, pregnancy, or chronic constipation. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies, and in severe cases, medical procedures.
What causes haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Increased Pressure: Excessive pressure on the veins in the rectal area can cause them to swell. This pressure might come from:
- Straining during bowel movements: Often due to constipation.
- Prolonged sitting: Especially on the toilet.
- Pregnancy: Increased pressure from the growing uterus.
- Obesity: Extra weight can put additional pressure on the veins.
- Chronic Constipation or Diarrhoea: Both conditions can lead to straining or irritation of the rectal area, contributing to hemorrhoid formation.
- Ageing: As people age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, making them more prone to swelling.
- Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing haemorrhoids.
- Diet: Low-fibre diets can contribute to constipation, leading to haemorrhoids. A diet high in processed foods and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can exacerbate this problem.
- Heavy Lifting: Repeated heavy lifting or physical exertion can increase abdominal pressure, leading to haemorrhoids.
- Anal Intercourse: This can sometimes lead to irritation or trauma in the anal area, potentially contributing to haemorrhoids.
Preventive measures include maintaining a high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sitting, and managing weight. If you’re experiencing symptoms like pain, itching, or bleeding, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Does eating onion in the evening increase the chance of haemorrhoids?
No. Eating onions, whether raw or cooked, is generally not considered a direct cause of haemorrhoids. They are primarily caused by increased pressure on the veins in the rectal area, which can result from factors such as straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, or chronic constipation.
Onions, as part of a balanced diet, can actually be beneficial due to their high fiber content, which can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation. However, if someone experiences gastrointestinal discomfort from onions, it might exacerbate symptoms indirectly related to haemorrhoids.
It’s worth noting that we don’t have specific information about whether the inquiry concerns raw onions or cooked onions, but in general, both forms are unlikely to significantly impact haemorrhoids directly. If you’re experiencing issues with haemorrhoids or have specific dietary concerns, it might be helpful to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
We’ve reviewed several claims regarding the consumption of onions and onion suppositories, which some people suggest can cure piles. However, these claims contradict the current understanding that onions might actually contribute to the development of piles.
What experts say?
Dr. Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, Pune, states, “Eating onions as a salad won’t cause piles, but consuming them in the form of onion pakora, fried onions, or onion gravy can exacerbate piles symptoms. Therefore, the form in which you consume onions is important.”
Dietician Kamna Chauhan says, “There is no direct proof that eating onions cause piles. Diet plays an important role in preventing and exacerbating haemorrhoids, but there is no direct connection between the timing of food consumption and occurrence of piles such as eating onion in evening.
Onions have high dietary fibre content which helps to prevent constipation. A high fibre diet that includes vegetables such as onions and regular exercise will help to enhance proper bowel movement hence reducing the risk of developing haemorrhoids. If blood is coming out from anus or if a person is experiencing pain then he/she should immediately consult their health professionals for personalised advice.”
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