Impact of Yoga Intervention on Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and Glycemic Control (HbA1c) in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and poor glycemic control. Conventional management typically involves pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modifications. Increasing evidence supports the integration of yoga as a complementary, non-pharmacological intervention that addresses both physiological and psychosocial dimensions of the disease. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured yoga intervention on insulin resistance—measured by Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR and long-term glycemic control—measured by Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c in adults with Type 2 Diabetes. Methods: A randomized controlled experimental design was employed with 60 participants (30 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group). The experimental group underwent a 16-week yoga intervention, five days per week, comprising asanas, pranayama, and meditation. The control group continued standard care without additional intervention. Pre- and post-test values for HOMA-IR and HbA1c were collected. Data were analyzed using ANCOVA to determine statistical significance. Results: Baseline comparisons showed no significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). Post-intervention, the yoga group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in both HOMA-IR and HbA1c levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Adjusted post-test means also confirmed the effectiveness of the yoga intervention, with ANCOVA revealing significant between-group differences in metabolic outcomes. Conclusion: The study provides compelling evidence that regular yoga practice significantly improves insulin sensitivity and glycemic control in adults with Type 2 Diabetes. These findings support the integration of yoga as a complementary therapeutic strategy in diabetes management, contributing to holistic metabolic health and reduced disease progression.