The Effect of Yoga and Gastro-Hepatic Pack on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Four-Arm Randomized Controlled Study

TL;DR

A study found that combining yoga and a gastro-hepatic pack improved blood sugar and stress more than either alone in type 2 diabetes patients.

Contribution

This is the first four-arm randomized controlled trial comparing yoga, gastro-hepatic pack, and their combination in managing type 2 diabetes.

Findings

Combined yoga and gastro-hepatic pack (CYG) showed the greatest reduction in HbA1c and stress levels.

All treatment groups experienced significant improvements in glycemic control and psychological well-being.

No adverse events were reported, indicating the safety of the interventions.

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of global mortality with significant health complications. Yoga and naturopathy have demonstrated beneficial effects on blood glucose control and psychological well-being.

Methods: A four-arm randomized study was conducted with 120 type 2 diabetic patients aged 40-60 years. Participants were randomly assigned to YG (yoga, 60 minutes), GH (gastro-hepatic pack, 20 minutes), CYG (combined yoga and gastro-hepatic pack, 80 minutes), or the control group. HbA1c, fasting and postprandial blood sugar, Perceived Stress Scale, and Diabetes Distress Scale were measured before and after intervention.

Result: A significant reduction in glycemic parameters was observed in all groups post-intervention, with HbA1c decreasing from 8.17 ± 1.11 to 6.95 ± 0.85 in YG, 8.04 ± 0.98 to 6.93 ± 0.67 in GH, and 8.23 ± 1.23 to 6.29 ± 0.59 in CYG (p < 0.001). Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and post-prandial blood sugar (PPBS) also significantly declined (p < 0.001). Psychological measures improved, with PSS scores dropping from 17.7 ± 3.2 to 9.80 ± 1.67 in YG and 16.0 ± 2.3 to 9.53 ± 1.48 in CYG; smaller reductions occurred in GH and Control. DDS scores significantly decreased (p < 0.001). CYG showed the greatest overall improvement. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: The combined yoga and gastro‑hepatic pack (CYG) intervention outperformed either alone in reducing stress and improving glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. This safe, holistic approach enhances overall quality of life, though long-term studies are needed to confirm the sustainability of these benefits and their impact on diabetes-related complications.

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