Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Terry, “This is an embarrassing question to ask. Like many Americans, I suffer from bleeding hemorrhoids. I just read a study that used French Maritime Pine bark to reduce pain and bleeding from hemorrhoids. What are your thoughts? Do you have any suggestions for other products that could help? Thank you so much for your time. I know you are very busy.” — Roger R, Salem, MA

A. Dear Roger, Please don’t be embarrassed about this common problem. Hemorrhoids are actually painful, swollen veins in the anal/rectal area. Some are internal and some can protrude. When they are irritated or inflamed, they can also bleed. It is always important to have ANY kind of rectal bleeding checked out by your healthcare professional to make sure it is hemorrhoids and not something more serious. Keeping your bowel movements soft and hydrated can greatly reduce hemorrhoid irritation. You can do this by drinking plenty of water, and making sure you have good sources of fiber in your diet—especially raw fruits and vegetables every day. Supplements that are especially useful for reducing hemorrhoidal swelling, pain and bleeding are botanicals that strengthen and protect veins. I have two suggestions for you. First, I agree that French Maritime Pine bark can be helpful for reducing hemorrhoids. I recommend it in a formula with black currant and grape seed for optimal results. Another product you may want to try is a formula with butcher’s broom in it. This herb helps constrict swollen veins and is often used to treat hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Some companies combine butcher’s broom with other ingredients, including glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), to provide raw materials for venous strengthening. Alone or in combination, it can be very helpful.

Healthy regards!

Terry . . . Naturally