(Therapeutic Role of Yoga in Type 2 Diabetes. A V Raveendran et al. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul). 2018 Sep; 33(3): 307β317. )
Type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle disorder that is becoming increasingly common. It is characterised by insulin resistance with relative or absolute insulin deficiency. This can result in devastating vascular complications such as kidney damage, heart attack, stroke and blindness.
The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in Singapore. The National Health Survey conducted in 2010 revealed that 11.3% of Singaporeans aged 18 to 69 year of age had T2D and 14.4% had pre-diabetes (impaired glucose tolerance). Faced with these alarming statistics, the Ministry of Health declared a βWar on Diabetesβ in 2016.
I chanced upon an interesting article that very gracefully weaves the role of Yoga in the management of diabetes.
Dietary management of diabetes with Yoga
- The regulation of eating patterns, the practice of mindful eating of clean and pure food, and the advocation of greater awareness are beneficial not only in improving dietary practices but also adherence to medication.
- Meditation and heightened mindfulness may help curb binge-eating patterns.
Beneficial effects of Yoga practices
These have been postulated to have beneficial effects through various mechanisms.
- Stimulates insulin production through brain signalling
- Massages the pancreas, stimulating insulin secretion
- Boost metabolic rate, promote weight loss, reduce sugar levels, reduce body fat
- Improves digestion and stimulates peristalsis
- Improve blood circulation
- Improves cardiorespiratory endurance
- Enhances insulin receptor expression in muscles, causing increased glucose uptake
- Positive effects on glucose utilisation and fat redistribution
- Soothing and calming effect on the mind, improves mental and physical health
- Lowers blood pressure
- Better sleep
Go ahead and read the full article for further details.
Remember to share your practice with someone you know who is battling with Diabetes!