Which Dry Fruit is Best for Hemorrhoids? A Detailed Guide

December 17, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most adults need 22 to 34 grams of fiber daily, a crucial amount for managing hemorrhoids by softening stool. Finding out which dry fruit is best for hemorrhoids can be a key strategy for naturally increasing this intake and preventing painful straining.

Quick Summary

This guide compares popular dried fruits like prunes, figs, and dates, highlighting their fiber content and natural laxative effects for relieving hemorrhoid symptoms. It details consumption methods to promote healthy and regular bowel movements.

Key Points

Prunes are highly effective: Thanks to their combination of soluble fiber and the natural laxative sorbitol, prunes are a top choice for relieving constipation related to hemorrhoids.
Figs are a powerful option: Rich in dietary fiber and containing natural laxative effects, figs help bulk and soften stool while reducing inflammation.
Soaking is recommended: For both prunes and figs, soaking them in water overnight enhances their digestive benefits and makes them gentler on the system.
Dates offer fiber and sorbitol: As a good source of fiber and sorbitol, dates can contribute to regular bowel movements and relieve hemorrhoid-related discomfort.
Hydration is critical: To ensure fiber works effectively and doesn't worsen constipation, it is essential to drink plenty of water alongside dried fruit consumption.
Start gradually: If you are new to a high-fiber diet, introduce dried fruits slowly to prevent gas, bloating, and other digestive issues.

The Link Between Constipation and Hemorrhoids

One of the most significant contributing factors to the development and worsening of hemorrhoids is chronic constipation. Straining during bowel movements increases pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, causing them to swell and become painful. A diet rich in fiber helps to combat this by softening and bulking up stool, making it easier to pass without excessive strain. Dry fruits are a concentrated source of dietary fiber, making them an excellent natural remedy, but not all are created equal. The best dry fruits for hemorrhoids are those that offer a powerful combination of fiber, natural laxatives, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Prunes: The Proven Path to Relief

Prunes, which are dried plums, are arguably the most renowned dry fruit for digestive health and are an excellent choice if you're wondering which dry fruit is best for hemorrhoids. Their effectiveness comes from a dual-action approach.

High Fiber Content: Prunes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. The insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool, while the soluble fiber dissolves to form a gel-like substance that softens it. This makes elimination smoother and more comfortable.
Natural Sorbitol: Prunes contain a sugar alcohol called sorbitol, which is poorly absorbed by the body. This draws water into the colon, acting as a natural laxative and further softening stool.
Preparation: For best results, soak four to six dried prunes in water overnight. Consuming them and drinking the soaking water on an empty stomach in the morning can enhance their laxative effect.

Figs: A Fiber Powerhouse

Figs, also known as 'anjeer,' are another top contender for relieving hemorrhoid symptoms. They are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, and also contain natural laxatives.

High Fiber per Serving: Just a few dried figs can provide a significant portion of your daily fiber needs. This helps add bulk and regulate bowel movements effectively.
Natural Laxatives: Figs contain natural compounds that gently promote bowel regularity. They also serve as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut to promote a healthy digestive microbiome.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in figs can help reduce the swelling and irritation associated with hemorrhoids.

Dates: Sweetness with Digestive Benefits

Dates are a delicious and high-fiber dry fruit that can help prevent and manage constipation, a key factor in hemorrhoid development.

Effective Fiber Source: A 3.5-ounce serving of dates contains almost 7 grams of fiber, which helps promote regular bowel movements.
Sorbitol Content: Like prunes, dates contain sorbitol, which has a mild laxative effect that aids in digestion.
Versatile Consumption: Dates can be eaten on their own or added to smoothies, oatmeal, and other dishes for a natural sweetness and a healthy fiber boost.

Nutritional Comparison of Dry Fruits for Hemorrhoids


Dry Fruit	Key Benefits for Hemorrhoids	Fiber Content (Approx.)	Key Compounds	Recommended Consumption
Prunes	Reduces straining, softens stool	3.8g per 1/2 cup, stewed	Sorbitol, Insoluble Fiber	Soaked overnight for optimal effect.
Figs	Adds bulk, aids regularity, anti-inflammatory	7.3g per 1/2 cup, dried	Fiber, Prebiotics, Phenolic Compounds	Soaked overnight or eaten as a snack.
Dates	Promotes regular bowel movements	7g per 100g serving	Fiber, Sorbitol	Consume a few daily, especially on an empty stomach.
Apricots	Aids digestion, adds bulk	2.9g per 4 dried pieces	Fiber, Sorbitol	Can be soaked to enhance effect and reduce additives.

How to Best Incorporate Dry Fruits into Your Diet

Soak Before Eating: For figs and prunes, soaking them in water overnight can make them softer, easier to digest, and enhance their laxative properties.
Start Slowly: If you are not used to a high-fiber diet, introduce dried fruits gradually to avoid bloating and gas. Your digestive system needs time to adjust.
Stay Hydrated: Always remember to drink plenty of water (around 8-10 glasses per day) when increasing your fiber intake. Fiber absorbs water, and without enough fluid, it can make constipation worse.
Mix It Up: Incorporate dried fruits into various meals. Sprinkle them on your morning oatmeal, add them to salads, or blend them into smoothies for an easy and effective boost.
Watch for Added Sugars: Always choose natural, unsweetened dried fruits. Processed or sweetened varieties contain added sugars that can irritate the gut and worsen symptoms.

A Holistic Approach to Hemorrhoid Management

While dry fruits are a powerful tool, they are most effective when part of a holistic diet and lifestyle. Other factors are crucial for managing and preventing hemorrhoids, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise. For more information on overall digestive health, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases provides comprehensive resources.

Conclusion: A Clear Choice for Relief

When considering which dry fruit is best for hemorrhoids, prunes and figs stand out for their exceptional blend of fiber, natural laxatives, and proven efficacy in combating constipation. Prunes benefit from the added sorbitol, while figs offer a potent dose of fiber and anti-inflammatory properties. By incorporating these dry fruits into your diet, ideally after soaking them overnight, you can promote softer, more regular bowel movements and reduce the straining that exacerbates hemorrhoids. A consistent and balanced approach, including ample hydration and other fiber sources, will provide the most effective and lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dried fruits are more concentrated sources of fiber than fresh fruit, making them highly effective for constipation relief. However, both are beneficial, and fresh fruit has a higher water content, which is also helpful.

Starting with four to six prunes per day is a moderate and effective dose for most people, especially when soaked overnight. It is best to introduce them gradually to see how your body reacts.

Yes, dried apricots are a good source of fiber and contain sorbitol, which can aid digestion and alleviate constipation. Soaking them can improve their benefits.

Soaking dry fruits like figs and prunes rehydrates them, making their fiber softer and easier for the digestive system to process. It also enhances their natural laxative properties.

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol found in some dried fruits, such as prunes and dates. It draws water into the intestines, softening the stool and promoting easier, strain-free bowel movements.

Avoid processed or overly sweetened dried fruits, as the added sugars can irritate the digestive system. Some people may also find that excessive consumption of any dried fruit can cause bloating or diarrhea due to the high fiber content.

Many people notice improvements in bowel regularity within one to two weeks of consistently incorporating soaked figs or prunes into their diet. However, individual results can vary.