Effect of Yoga Training and High Probiotic Food Supplements on Insulin-Resistance in Polycystic-Ovarian-Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background of the study: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder that affects 5% to 10% of females globally during their reproductive years and can lead to other complications, such as diabetes. While PCOS can develop due to various factors, insulin resistance (IR) is a crucial underlying cause. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the effects of Yoga, high probiotic-food supplements, and the Mediterranean diet on insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Methods: In this RCT, 52 females diagnosed with PCOS and IR participated. The subjects were assigned into two groups, with the study group (n=26) following to a Mediterranean diet rich in probiotics and engaging in daily one-hour yoga sessions. In contrast, the control group (n=26) practiced Yoga for 1 hour daily. The intervention duration in both groups was 12 weeks. We planned a Mediterranean diet rich in probiotics and Yoga practice. The diet was prepared as the macronutrient of 55–60% of calories from carbohydrates (with simple sugars representing less than 10%), 10–15% of calories from protein, and 30–35% of calories from fat (mostly monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fats) following WHO recommendations. The Yogo practice includes “warming-up exercises (Jathi(s))”, “characteristic body postures (Asana(s))”, “symbolic gestures (Mudra(s))”, “chanting of sacred sounds (Om japa)”, and “breathing techniques (Pranayama)”. The primary outcome measures, including FBG, homeostatic model assessment of IR, and serum insulin, were measured at pretest and after twelve weeks. The homeostatic model assessment of IR was calculated using a specific formula. Serum insulin levels were measured using an ELISA kit. Secondary outcomes such as body weight, BMI, and waist circumference (WC) were also assessed. Results: After twelve weeks of treatment, both groups showed important enhancements in insulin resistance, serum insulin, and fasting blood glucose (p < 0.05). Group A significantly improved weight, BMI, hip circumference, insulin resistance, serum insulin, and fasting blood glucose than group B (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in waist circumference between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Integrating high-probiotic supplements into the diet alongside Yoga for 12 weeks significantly enhances various health parameters, including serum insulin levels, homeostatic model assessment of IR, fasting blood glucose, and body measurements such as waist and hip circumference, as well as BMI, in women with PCOS, compared to practicing Yoga alone.