I looked at the scientific evidence supporting Yoga’s role in managing hypertension and diabetes in the course of research for my book Natural Solutions for Diabetes. Hypertension is often seen in people with diabetes. Here is the summary of the research:
A systematic review of articles and studies on the health impact of Yoga shows that its’ practice helps in weight control and reduction of blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar. (Yang, K., 2007; Youngwanichsetha, S. et al., 2014)
Yoga and standard physical training exercises both have a positive impact on individuals who have diabetes. It helps reduce oxidative stress and bring about improvements in antioxidant profiles. (Gordon, L.A. et al., 2008)
Diabetic individuals who performed pranayama felt a sense of well-being in 7 to 10 days of practice. Demand for insulin and other diabetes control medicine dropped. In this trial, four types of pranayama were practiced for 30 minutes, followed by 10 minutes of resting yoga posture called Shavasana (a dead person pose posture). (Sahay, B.K., 2007)
Individuals who practiced 30 to 40 minutes of Yoga showed improved blood glucose and nerve function compared to another group of individuals who followed a regime of light exercise and medication. The yoga asanas included in this trial were: Suryanamskar (Sun salutation), Tadasana (Mountain pose), Konasan (Angel pose), Padmasan (sitting cross-leg Yoga sitting posture), Paschimottasan (Seating forward pose), Ardhamatsyendrasan (Half spinal twist pose), Pavanmuktasana, (Wind releasing pose), Sarpasan (snake pose) and Shavasana (Deadman pose). These individuals also practiced breathing exercises -Pranayamas. (Malhotra, V. et al., 2002)
I also learned that the role of Yoga, meditation, tai chi, qi gong, and herbal medicine in diabetes management is supportive. The thrust of diabetes management still sits with modern medicine.
My books on natural solutions: