Holistic approach to diabetics: Yoga and high fiber nutrition

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high glucose levels in the bloodstream. It occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it makes. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. Hyperglycaemia, or high blood sugar, is a common result of uncontrolled diabetes and, over time, causes serious damage to many systems of the body, especially the nerves and blood vessels. Globally, the prevalence of diabetes is estimated to reach 200 million, and is expected to double by 2030, and in South India nearly 27% of middle-aged women have this metabolic disorder.Aim: This pilot study aims to assess the blood sugar level changes following regular yoga and fiber rich food diet, along with a normal diet, and its role in managing diabetes mellitus.Methods: The study will include 20 women diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, aged 45-55 years, who have no prior experience with yoga. Participants will be randomly assigned to the Group 1(yoga and diet intervention) (n=7), Group 2 Diet group (n=7), and yoga intervention group (n=6) were assessed their blood sugar levels before and after the intervention period of 8 weeks with a daily practice of yoga and fiber diet intake under the guidance of nutritionist. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANCOVA to determine the changes and differences among the three groups.Results: We have seen significant changes in hyperglycaemia with yoga and fiber diet intervention group compared to the isolated groups. In this study, the outcome was achieved in 60% of participants in Group 1, compared to 29% in Group 2 and 8% in Group 3. This study supports as the evidence that the implementation of holistic lifestyle strategies that incorporate yoga and fiber dietary changes can manage and can reverse the metabolic disorders, like blood sugar levels and triglycerides.