The Impact of Yoga Practices on Body Composition and Vital Signs in Children and Adolescents With Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Clear recommendations for treating childhood obesity include family involvement, improving diet quality, reducing portion sizes, increasing physical activity, and decreasing sedentary behaviors. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide evidence the effects of yoga interventions on BMI, weight, body composition, and vital signs in children or adolescents with overweight/obesity. This study searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO databases to include all studies published up to June 2024. Methodological quality was assessed with the RoB 2. Randomized or nonrandomized controlled studies were included. The standardized mean difference with a 95% confidence interval was calculated. Heterogeneity was analyzed using the I2 test and Q statistic. Publication bias was assessed with the Egger regression test. Results: This meta-analysis included nine studies. Pooled evidence found that yoga significantly reduces BMI and body fat percentage in children or young people with overweight/obesity. Conclusion: In conclusion, findings derived from pooled data yoga intervention is an effective method for weight management in children and adolescents with obesity. Additionally, considering that yoga is a calming and mind–body-based intervention, it is recommended that future studies also examine the psychological effects of yoga in children and adolescents with obesity.