A comprehensive review on the role of yoga in the management of type- 2 diabetes mellitus and its benefits over physical exercise in type 2 DM

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. It is caused either due to defective secretion of insulin or due to increased insulin resistance of peripheral tissue. The incidence of DM has increased in past decade due to sedentary lifestyle, altered dietary patterns, obesity etc. DM increases morbidity and mortality of individuals, thereby requiring great attention. In recent era, insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents are used in majority to treat DM. Recent studies have shown that simple lifestyle changes like dietary changes, yoga and physical exercise are highly beneficial in reducing the burden of disease. This review focusses on yoga as an intervention in reducing the morbidity from the disease. It highlights the benefits of yoga over physical exercise in halting the progress of disease. Physical exercise is not feasible in patients with obesity, cardio vascular diseases and older age group. Yoga is a physical, psychological and spiritual intervention that is more feasible than physical exercise.