As a plastic surgeon, I haven't seen any solid proof that sugar works for hemorrhoids. Honestly, patients get the most relief from sitz baths and over-the-counter creams. I'm always cautious about weird home remedies. It's best to stick with what's backed by research, and of course, talk to a gastroenterologist before trying anything unusual.
Founder & Medical Director at New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center
Answered 3 months ago
It is not a cure for hemorrhoids. It is an osmotic move. Sugar can draw water out of very swollen tissue and sometimes makes a trapped prolapse easier to reduce. A 2025 Cleveland Clinic case study chapter states that incarcerated prolapsed internal hemorrhoids and distal rectum may be reduced with table sugar. A 2025 ASCRS toolkit update also notes topical table sugar can reduce edema to help reduction maneuvers in incarcerated rectal prolapse. Questions for your gastroenterologist: When is sugar appropriate, and when is it unsafe? How do you tell a simple flare from thrombosis or strangulation? What red flags mean same day urgent care? What "odd" home steps are actually reasonable, like warm sitz baths, fiber, or brief topical anesthetic, and which should be avoided?