Each year, around 2.5 million people in the U.S. see a doctor because of constipation. And in 2021, Americans spent $1.68 billion dollars on laxatives.

Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week — although what's normal is highly individual (some people go multiple times a day, some only a few times a week). When you can't go, it means your stools are hard and dry.

Constipation may result from a lack of fiber in your diet, dehydration, stress, suppressed bowel movements, and/or medication you’re taking (narcotic pain meds, iron supplements, antacids with calcium, antidepressants, some diuretics, and overuse of over-the-counter laxatives can cause the condition).

Unfortunately, a new study shows that using a laxative regularly is associated with a 28% increased risk of developing dementia, compared to people who don't use them.

So-called osmotic laxatives that draw water to the colon to soften stool are associated with an even greater risk.

And what about people who use multiple laxatives? That was associated with a 90% increased dementia risk Though the study didn't show direct cause (constipation) and effect (dementia), the association is still worth noting.

To ease constipation, eat legumes, 100% whole grain, and fruits and veggies; ditch processed foods; drink plenty of water; and see your doctor to assess what else will help.

One interesting new treatment involves swallowing an FDA-approved, vibrating capsule twice a day (it exits gracefully). This stimulates the colon for a few seconds and causes bowel movements without the use of drugs.