What Diabetic is and how yoga can be helpful for it, based on scientific studies and research.

 

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar or glucose. It is a metabolic disorder in which the body either doesn't produce enough insulin, which is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels or doesn't effectively use the insulin it produces. This results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, kidney damage, and blindness.

According to the World Health Organization, the number of people with diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, making it one of the most significant health challenges of the 21st century. Diabetes is a leading cause of premature death worldwide, and the numbers are only expected to rise.

Fortunately, there are ways to manage diabetes, and one such way is yoga. Yoga is a holistic practice that involves physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It has been shown in numerous scientific studies and research to have a positive impact on a range of physical and mental health conditions, including diabetes.

Here are some ways yoga can be helpful for people with diabetes:

1. Lowering Blood Sugar Levels: A study conducted in 2016 found that practicing yoga for 12 weeks lowered blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The study included 68 participants who were randomly assigned to a yoga group or a control group. The yoga group practiced yoga for 90 minutes, three times a week, while the control group didn't participate in any physical activity. At the end of the study period, the yoga group showed significant reductions in fasting blood sugar levels, postprandial blood sugar levels, and HbA1c levels.

2. Reducing Stress: Stress can be a significant trigger for high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Yoga is known to have stress-relieving benefits, and research has shown that practicing yoga can reduce stress hormones such as cortisol and improve overall well-being. A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that practicing yoga for 60 minutes twice a week for 12 weeks reduced stress and improved glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes.

3. Improving Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin resistance is a common problem for people with type 2 diabetes, where the body doesn't respond to insulin as effectively as it should. A study published in the International Journal of Yoga Therapy in 2013 found that practicing yoga improved insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. The study included 30 participants who practiced yoga for 60 minutes, three times a week for three months. The study found that yoga significantly improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose levels by improving glucose uptake in peripheral tissues.

4. Enhancing Cardiovascular Health: People with diabetes are at an increased risk of heart disease, and yoga has been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that practicing yoga for 12 weeks improved lipid profiles and reduced inflammation in people with type 2 diabetes. The study included 182 participants who were randomly assigned to a yoga group, a walking group, or a control group. The yoga group showed significant improvements in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers.

In conclusion, yoga is a useful tool for managing diabetes, and scientific research has shown its benefits in various ways. It can help lower blood sugar levels, reduce stress, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance cardiovascular health. As with any new physical activity, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting a yoga practice, especially if you have complications associated with diabetes. However, for those looking for a holistic approach to managing their diabetes, yoga may be worth considering.