One of the top digestive maladies is constipation. Over two-thirds of the world’s population is constipated. People spend millions on laxatives and other medicines to treat constipation. Constipation is not an ailment, but a symptom. However, this widely prevalent symptom can lead to several other health disorders, such as, diarrhea, nausea and depression. 

Lifestyle and food are some of the obvious causes for constipation. Health conditions, such as hypothyroidism, nervous disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, uremia, and systemic diseases, such as lupus, scleroderma and amyloidosis, can influence the digestive system to cause constipation. 

Antidepressant and painkiller medications lead to sluggish bowel movements.  Consumption of dairy products, laxative abuse, vitamin supplements are also some of the surprising causes that lead to constipation.

While a doctor can prescribe laxative and other treatments, few lifestyle changes and home remedies can help to manage the problem. These are some natural methods, which help to beat constipation, without causing other side effects.