Researchers report modest but meaningful cardiovascular benefits from consistent practice, comparable to some medical treatments.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A large-scale analysis led by researchers at the University of Edinburgh has found that regular yoga practice may contribute to reductions in blood pressure, with results comparable to those observed in some medical treatments.
The study, published in PLOS Global Public Health, reviewed data from 30 prior studies involving more than 2,600 adults classified as overweight or obese. Participants who engaged in consistent yoga routines over a 12-week period experienced average reductions of 4.35 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 2.06 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure.
Researchers noted that reductions of this magnitude may carry clinical significance. A decrease of approximately 5 mmHg in systolic blood pressure has been associated with a roughly 10 percent lower risk of heart attack or stroke. The findings suggest that sustained yoga practice may contribute to cardiovascular risk reduction when incorporated into broader health strategies.
The analysis examined studies conducted across multiple regions, including Asia, the United States, Germany, and Australia. Most participants followed a routine of approximately three hour-long sessions per week, equivalent to about 25 minutes of daily activity.
In addition to blood pressure effects, the study identified modest improvements in cholesterol levels. Participants showed reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol due to its association with arterial plaque buildup and cardiovascular disease. However, researchers reported limited evidence of consistent effects on blood sugar regulation or inflammation.
The authors emphasized that the findings are based on observational data, meaning the results cannot establish a direct causal relationship. Individuals who adhere to regular yoga routines may also engage in other health-related behaviors, such as improved diet or increased physical activity, which could contribute to the observed outcomes.
Earlier research has reported similar findings. A 2013 meta-analysis published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine and led by Marshall Hagins of Long Island University found that yoga was associated with modest reductions in blood pressure, particularly when combining physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.
Recent studies of related practices have also examined cardiovascular outcomes. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that participants practicing baduanjin, a form of qigong, experienced sustained reductions in systolic blood pressure over an extended period.
Medical experts say yoga’s effects may be linked to its influence on the nervous system. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, the practice may help lower activation of the sympathetic nervous system while increasing parasympathetic activity, both of which can contribute to lower blood pressure levels.
Health organizations continue to recommend that adults engage in regular physical activity as part of cardiovascular disease prevention. The World Health Organization advises between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate exercise per week, along with strength training.
Researchers said yoga may serve as a complementary approach within broader health plans that include diet, exercise, and medical care when necessary. The findings highlight the potential role of consistent, low-impact physical activity in supporting cardiovascular health outcomes.
Source: Natural News