Are You Diabetic? Yoga Can Be Used as an Effective Therapy

Diabetes Type 2 is a long term metabolic disorder that is characterised by high blood sugar, insulin resistance and relative lack of insulin. The pancreas makes a hormone called insulin that makes the cells turn glucose from the food that is consumed into energy. People with Type 2 diabetes make insulin, but their cells don't use it as well as they should hence making them insulin resistance.

Type 2 diabetes has become an issue of concern in regards to public health globally. According to a study published in two international medical journals, Elsevier and the Journal of Diabetes Research, yoga can be used as an effective therapy in reducing oxidative stress in Type 2 diabetes, enhancing pulmonary and autonomic function, mood, sleep, quality of life, and in addition to standard care helping to reduce BMI and improving glycemic control.

The findings also suggest that yogic practices may promote significant improvements in several indices of importance in DM2 (Type 2 diabetes) management, including lipid levels and body composition.

However, the study mentions that given the methodological limitations and heterogeneity of existing studies, findings must be interpreted with caution. Additional high-quality investigations are required to confirm and further elucidate the potential therapeutic benefits of standardised yoga programs in populations with DM2.

Delhi-based Yoga instructor, Seema Sondhi says "With the regular practice of yoga asanas like the forward bends and twists we can stimulate the internal organs affecting in proper functioning of the pancreas."