Comparative Analysis of Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Diets on Spirometry-Measured Lung Function in Yoga Practitioners

AbstractBackground: Diet and yoga both contribute significantly to overall health,particularly respiratory function. However, the impact of vegetarian and nonvegetarian diets on lung function among yoga practitioners remains unclear. Thisstudy aimed to evaluate the effect of vegetarian versus non-vegetarian diets onspirometry-measured lung function in yoga practitioners.Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 100 yogapractitioners (50 vegetarians and 50 non-vegetarians). Participants were matchedfor age, gender, and duration of yoga practice. Spirometry tests measured ForcedVital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), and theFEV1/FVC ratio. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, paired ttests, repeated measures ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficients. Ethicalapproval was obtained, and written informed consent was provided by allparticipants.Results: There were no significant differences in FVC, FEV1, or FEV1/FVC ratiobetween vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Both groups showed significantimprovements in FVC and FEV1 post-yoga (p < 0.01). Repeated measures ANOVAindicated a significant main effect of time (p < 0.01) but no significant interactioneffect between diet type and time (p = 0.34). Weak, non-significant positivecorrelations were found between vegetarian diet adherence and lung functionparameters.Conclusions: Yoga practice significantly improves lung function, regardless ofdietary pattern. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets are compatible with therespiratory benefits of yoga. This suggests flexibility in dietary recommendationsfor yoga practitioners aiming to enhance respiratory health.Keywords: Yoga, Vegetarian Diet, Non-Vegetarian D