Background
Obesity, a global epidemic, significantly increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Conventional treatments often lack long-term efficacy, emphasizing the need for integrative, sustainable approaches.
Objective
This review assesses the role of yoga as a complementary intervention in obesity management and its effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risk.
Methods
We systematically reviewed literature up to March 2024 from Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Embase and the Cochrane Central Library. The focus was on randomized controlled trials (RCTs), observational studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses evaluating the impact of yoga on obesity-related outcomes and cardiovascular risk factors. Studies were reviewed for quality, outcomes, and both physiological and psychological effects of yoga on obese individuals.
Results
Yoga interventions consistently yielded positive results in reducing body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body fat. These physical changes correlate with significant improvements in cardiovascular markers, including blood-pressure, cholesterol levels, endothelial and autonomic functions. Yoga also enhances stress management and psychological well-being, addressing both mental and physical facets of obesity. The benefits extend beyond mere weight reduction, affecting systemic inflammation and metabolic health, crucial for mitigating CVD risks.
Conclusion
Yoga represents a promising, non-pharmacological approach to obesity management and CVD risk reduction. Its holistic impact on physical and psychological health makes it a viable adjunct therapy in comprehensive obesity management, fostering sustainable lifestyle changes and long-term health benefits.
Implications
Incorporating yoga into standard obesity management protocols could enhance therapeutic outcomes. Future research should standardize yoga interventions to better integrate them into modern healthcare and explore their long-term cardiovascular effects.