Effect of yoga on glycemic control and inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a prospective non-randomized comparative interventional study.

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by persistent metabolic disturbance, insulin resistance, and a low-grade inflammatory state. Yoga may complement standard treatment by combining physical activity, breathing practices, relaxation, and stress regulation. Objectives: To evaluate changes in glycemic indices, insulin resistance, and selected inflammatory markers during a structured 45-day yoga program in patients with T2DM receiving routine medication. Methods: This prospective, non-randomized comparative interventional study included 100 adults with established T2DM attending the General Medicine outpatient department. Fifty participants continued routine antidiabetic medication alone, while 50 received the same routine treatment together with a supervised 60-minute yoga session daily for 45 days. Venous blood was collected on days 0, 15, 30, and 45 for fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, insulin, HOMA-IR, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Conclusion: A 45-day supervised yoga program, when added to routine medication, was associated with better glycemic control, lower insulin resistance, and reduced inflammatory marker levels in patients with T2DM. Recommendations: Yoga can be considered as a supportive component of diabetes care for suitable patients. Longer studies with clearly defined allocation procedures and broader lifestyle assessment are warranted.