Effectiveness of Yoga as the Public Health Intervention Module in the Management of Diabetes and Diabetes Associated Dementia in South East Asia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is widely spread in South Asian (ASEAN) and Indian sub-continent. The increasing healthcare costs of DM can be prevented in the developing world by improved public healthcare interventions. Modifiable risk factors of DM like sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and stressful conditions are associated with its progression; however, the epidemiological data collected by Public Institutions are limited. Summary: A review of published literature describing geographic distribution of DM and associated dementia in South Asian region, particularly India, was conducted with the purpose of assessing the feasibility and challenges associated with the Yoga-based risk reduction. PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for DM and dementia-related articles by using a combination of keywords: Diabetes, Diabetes related Dementia Southeast Asia, Pre-diabetes, Yoga, lifestyle modification, Dementia and Exercise. The epidemiological data generated from these diseases have not prompted to any major public health policies. Yoga can be a cost-effective intervention for the prevention of Type 2 DM (T2DM) and its associated cognitive decline when detected early. If nationwide intervention of Yoga is brought about by the state, its integration in health care will become more meaningful and acceptable. Key Message: Studies suggest that Yoga and change in lifestyle can modify the health risks associated with T2DM and associated dementia if it is mainstreamed with the public health initiative of Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Yoga Practice Is Beneficial for Maintaining Healthy Lifestyle and Endurance Under Restrictions and Stress Imposed by Lockdown During COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Despite limited public health intervention strategies, Yoga has remained the mainstay for improving well-being, disease risk reduction, and improving mental and physical health ( 17 – 20 , 24 , 25 ). We had earlier reported significant barriers in access to Yoga resources even though the prevalence of Yoga in India and elsewhere was significantly noteworthy ( 26 , 27 ).…”

“…We had earlier reported significant barriers in access to Yoga resources even though the prevalence of Yoga in India and elsewhere was significantly noteworthy ( 26 , 27 ). Regardless, several studies have reported over time better physical health, mental health, and quality of life both among healthy individuals and those with disease or disorder ( 17 – 20 , 24 , 25 ). Yoga has been known to improve physical and mental health compared with a physically active group or a physically inactive group, yet the reliance on its anticipated benefits has never been assessed in any nationwide study during a health crisis ( 28 , 29 ).…”

“…Emerging data have shown differences in the susceptibility to COVID-19 symptoms based on age and co-morbidities ( 4 ). Studies have shown the benefits of Yoga intervention in reducing the risk and severity of diabetes and other co-morbidities ( 24 , 25 ). Such interventions may, therefore, be helpful for the risk reduction of COVID-19.…”

Effectiveness of Yoga Lifestyle on Lipid Metabolism in a Vulnerable Population—A Community Based Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

“…It is also believed that yoga postures like pranayama (breathing) and asanas improve cardiovascular and respiratory activity by increasing nitric oxide (NO) and antioxidant levels in the blood. Further, the HPA/SAM are hypothesized to reduce the over-production or activation of catecholamines, corticosteroids (glucocorticoids), and subsequent cytokines that are pro-inflammatory, increasing CHD risk [ 16 , 17 ]. β-cell sensitivity in response to glucose metabolism and insulin secretion is improved by these yoga postures [ 18 ].…”

Ayurveda Body–Mind Constitutional Types and Role of Yoga Intervention Among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Population of Chandigarh and Panchkula Regions

“…10 Yoga is a mind-body practice that originated from ancient India and focused on the sequence and combination of different asanas (postures) synergizing with breath and mind control. 11,12 These asana/postures are not merely practicing physical movements but exert a coordinated positive impact on health and lifestyle. 13 Yoga, through the neuroendocrine mechanism, has been proven to be associated with the decrease in the glycemic status 14 and lipid profile of the individuals.…”