Original Research Article
Year: 2017 | Month: January | Volume: 7 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 146-152
A Comparative Study of the Effect of Yoga versus Aerobic Exercise on Blood Glucose Level and Quality of Life in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Dangi Ashwini1*, Raj Dhwani*, Deo Medha2*
1Associate Professor, 2Principal,
*Terna Physiotherapy College, Terna Medical College Campus, 3rd floor, Sector 12, Nerul, Navi Mumbai.
Corresponding Author: Dangi Ashwini
ABSTRACT
Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is characterized by a combination of peripheral insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells. This build-up of glucose in the blood over a prolonged period of time may lead to serious, long -term complications which can affect the quality of life. In subjects with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, physical training has shown to have a positive increase in insulin secretion. Effect of Yoga therapy on blood glucose level in diabetic patients has also been extensively studied. However, no study has been done till date, comparing the effects of yoga and aerobic exercises on blood glucose levels & quality of life in type 2 DM patients.
Objective: To compare the effects of Yoga & aerobic exercise in the form of walking on fasting blood glucose level & quality of life in type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Materials & Methods: A convenience sample of 40 type 2 Diabetes Mellitus subjects participated in this study. Fasting blood glucose level & quality of life score was measured on day 1 and day 30 in group A which performed yogasanas under supervision 5 times a week for 4 weeks. The scores were compared with group B which performed walking for 5 days a week for 4 weeks.
Results: A statistically significant reduction in fasting blood glucose level as well as significant improvement in the Quality Of Life score was observed after 4 weeks of training in both the groups. However, a statistically non- significant change was seen in both fasting blood glucose level and Quality Of Life score on comparison between groups A & B.
Conclusion: The above study shows that Yoga and Aerobic Exercise, in the form of walking, are equally effective in reducing blood glucose levels and improving the quality of life in subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Key words: Aerobic exercise, Blood glucose level, Type 2 diabetes, Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index, Yogasanas.