Review: Can Yoga Breathing Exercises Improve Glycemic Response and Insulin Sensitivity?

Abstract

This is the first review of the literature on the effects of slow breathing on glycemic regulation and insulin sensitivity. While many studies have investigated the effects of yoga on individuals with diabetes, few studies have specifically focusing on the isolation of slow breathing as the principle factor in their intervention. While it is difficult to separate the exercise-related effects of yoga, there is considerable evidence that a breathing intervention is capable of increasing insulin sensitivity and improving glycemic regulation. This appears to be true both acutely and chronically in healthy individuals and those with diabetes. Yoga pranayama and the slow breathing practices that are fundamental to yoga represent a relatively low-cost and under-utilized intervention for individuals with conditions related to altered glycemic regulation and insulin sensitivity. More studies should focus on pranayama and slow breathing maneuvers to better clarify the role of respiratory modulation on glucose metabolism and insulin response.

Psycho-physio-biochemical modulations brought by Integrated Amrita Meditation (IAM®) relieved stress and improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetic subjects

“… 13 These changes may be due to normalization of autonomic cardiovascular rhythms as a result of increased vagal modulation and/or decreased sympathetic activity and improved baroreflex sensitivity. 15 Yogic pranayama breathing has been suggested to reduce the sense of stress, reduce sympathetic drive, and improve cardiovascular function 16 …”

Effectiveness of adjuvant yoga therapy in diabetic lung: A randomized control trial

“…[910] This has been attributed to various mechanisms including increased metabolism of glucose, facilitation of glycolysis, and increased metabolic rate. [11] The evidence in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) has built up to an extent that the American Diabetes Association has stated that adjuvant therapies may be utilized in cases of diabetes when based on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). [12]…”