Improving diabetic’s quality of life

An increasing number of people with diabetes mellitus are turning to yoga in an effort to keep their condition under control and improve their quality of life.

It is well known that regular practice of yoga can help reduce levels of stress, enhance mobility and lower blood pressure.

These benefits improve diabetes management and protect against other medical conditions such as heart disease.

Yoga is a series of mental, physical and spiritual disciplines that helps to coordinate breath, mind and body to promote relaxation, develop breath awareness and provide a sense of inner peace.

Data from several studies suggest that yoga and other mind-body therapies can reduce stress-related hyperglycemia and have a positive effect on blood glucose control.

Stress management is one of the keys of diabetes treatment. When we are stressed, our blood sugar levels increase. Elevated blood sugar levels increase chances of serious complications such as heart disease.

Using controlled breathing techniques, meditation and body postures, yoga and other mind-based programs train participants to invoke a relaxation response.

This response helps regulate cortisol and other stress hormones which increase blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Both play a big role in the development of type 2 diabetes and related complications.

In type 2 diabetes, yoga prevents the disease from developing by:

• Rejuvenating pancreatic cells, stimulating the production of insulin-producing beta cells

• Increasing glucose uptake by muscular cells which helps to lower blood sugar, improve circulation and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease

• Promoting weight loss

• Improving your mental attitude.