Yoga Practices Linked to Improved Insulin Resistance in Women with PCOS: Pilot Study Findings
India: A recent pilot study has highlighted the potential benefits of yoga in improving insulin resistance among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition affects hormonal balance and metabolic health. The findings, published in the International Journal of Yoga Therapy, suggest that incorporating specific yoga techniques may serve as a supportive intervention for managing metabolic dysfunction in PCOS.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, excessive androgen levels, and metabolic dysfunctions such as insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, obesity, and dyslipidemia. These metabolic disturbances elevate the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
While there is no definitive cure, conventional management focuses on lifestyle modifications, dietary interventions, weight management, and medications like metformin to improve symptoms. In recent years, yoga has gained attention for its holistic benefits, particularly its positive effects on carbohydrate metabolism, lipid regulation, and overall health outcomes in women with PCOS. Considering this, Anushka Verma, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, India, and colleagues aimed to investigate the possible link between yoga practices and insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
For this purpose, the researchers enrolled 35 newly diagnosed women with PCOS and assessed insulin resistance using the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) on blood samples. Participants were then guided to follow a yoga regimen, including kriya, postures, and breathwork, for six days a week over 12 weeks. After the intervention, HOMA-IR was reassessed, and the results were analyzed using the Wilcoxon ranked-sum test to evaluate changes in insulin resistance.
Key Findings:
- Mean body weight decreased from 64.90 ± 1.95 kg to 61.53 ± 1.71 kg.
- Mean BMI reduced from 25.66 ± 0.65 kg/m² to 24.33 ± 0.56 kg/m².
- Fasting blood sugar declined from 95.73 ± 3.23 mg/dL to 91.83 ± 2.17 mg/dL.
- Fasting insulin levels dropped from 14.89 ± 1.47 μU/mL to 11.47 ± 1.06 μU/mL.
- HOMA-IR decreased from 3.76 ± 0.50 to 2.72 ± 0.32.
"Given the increasing prevalence of PCOS and the associated metabolic risks, integrating yoga into routine care could offer a complementary approach alongside conventional treatments. As research in this area continues, yoga may emerge as a valuable, non-pharmacological strategy to improve metabolic health and overall well-being in women with PCOS," the researchers concluded.
Reference:
Anushka Verma, Asha Gandhi, Nivedita Sirdesai, Vineeta Chandra; Yoga Techniques Associated with Improved Insulin Resistance in Women with PCOS: A Pilot Study. Int J Yoga Therap 1 February 2024; 34 (2024): Article 23. doi: https://doi.org/10.17761/2024-D-23-00056
