Effect of long-term Yogic practices in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a single case study

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic noncommunicable disease for which there is not yet a cure. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a heterogeneous metabolic disorder resulting from a defect in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both, resulting in abnormally high blood glucose levels. Madhumeha (Diabetes) described in Ayurveda texts is often compared with T2DM. Yoga, an ancient practice, is now emerging as a complementary therapy in noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, etc. In the present case study, a 51-year-old female patient with a known case of T2DM for the past one year presented with complaints of increased frequency urination, stress, burning sensation at soles, excessive sweating, hunger, thirst, and fatigue. A properly designed one-year Yoga module was provided to her by a certified Yoga trainer. Appropriate modifications were made in diet and lifestyle. After one year, fasting blood sugar dropped from 187 to 117 mg/dL and postprandial blood sugar dropped from 311 to 194 mg/dL. Weight reduced from 61 to 52 kg. The subjective symptoms also reduced remarkably. The results concluded that consistent long-term practice of a Yogic lifestyle can not only maintain the blood sugar levels of patients with diabetes but also improve the quality of life.