Yoga For Metabolic Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

With increased urbanization and industrialization, there is an emerging global epidemic of obesity which is a forerunner of metabolic syndrome. The most significant underlying cause of the metabolic syndrome is insulin resistance and its consequences. The metabolic syndrome causes lipogenesis and fat deposition. It is one of the most important risk factors for the development of catastrophic health consequences such as coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus Type II, fatty liver, and malignant diseases. While most of these patients are treated by pharmacotherapy, there is a growing interest in studying the effectiveness of alternative therapies, including Yoga. Yoga has been practiced in India for thousands of years. Yoga, particularly Asana and Pranayama, is effective not only in improving the overall health and well-being of an individual but also reported to be effective in managing chronic medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Various studies have found Yoga to be not only preventive but also of therapeutic value. Yoga not only has physical elements but also consists of breathing techniques, mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques; hence it not only strengthens the body (secondary to physical exercise) but also positively impacts the psychosocial well-being of individuals practicing Yoga regularly. We undertook this review to determine the effectiveness of Yoga in patients with metabolic syndrome and to know whether Yoga has therapeutic benefits in patients with metabolic syndrome. Moreover, an attempt was also made to determine whether there was a significant reduction in the risk of secondary cardiovascular complications in these patients.