Yoga practice in diabetes improves physical and psychological outcomes

Metab Syndr Relat Disord. 2009 Dec;7(6):515-7. doi: 10.1089/met.2009.0011.

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of yoga practice on clinical and psychological outcomes in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods: In a 40-day yoga camp at the Institute of Yoga and Consciousness, ambulatory subjects with T2DM not having significant complications (n = 35) participated in a 40-day yoga camp, where yogic practices were overseen by trained yoga teachers. Clinical, biochemical, and psychological well-being were studied at baseline and at the end of the camp.

Results: At the end of the study, there was a reduction of body mass index (BMI) (26.514 +/- 3.355 to 25.771 +/- 3.40; P < 0.001) and anxiety (6.20 +/- 3.72 to 4.29 +/- 4.46; P < 0.05) and an improvement in total general well-being (48.6 +/- 11.13 to 52.66 +/- 52.66 +/- 12.87; P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Participation of subjects with T2DM in yoga practice for 40 days resulted in reduced BMI, improved well-being, and reduced anxiety.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anxiety
  • Body Mass Index
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / pathology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / psychology
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • India
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Yoga* / psychology