MANGALURU (KARNATAKA), (Economy india): A 10-day programme combining yoga, naturopathy and dietary modification may bring measurable changes in the body’s autonomic regulation that remain detectable for up to nine months in people with hypertension, according to a new study.
The findings emerged from a randomised controlled trial involving 262 people, conducted by researchers at the SDM College of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences in Ujire. The study examined whether an integrated approach involving yoga, naturopathy and changes in diet could influence physiological mechanisms associated with stress regulation.
Researchers focused on heart-rate variability (HRV), a non-invasive measure that is widely used to assess the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic system helps regulate involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure and the body’s response to stress.
Participants who underwent the 10-day integrated programme showed changes in HRV, suggesting an alteration in autonomic regulation. Importantly, researchers reported that these changes remained detectable during follow-up for as long as nine months.
The findings are significant because hypertension is influenced by several factors, including stress, lifestyle, diet and autonomic nervous system activity. The study suggests that structured lifestyle interventions may potentially have effects extending beyond the period in which they are directly practised.
The researchers, however, noted that HRV is a physiological marker and should not by itself be interpreted as proof that yoga or naturopathy can cure hypertension. Such approaches may need to be considered alongside appropriate medical care and other evidence-based measures for blood pressure management.
The study was published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. It was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India and supported by the Ministry of AYUSH.
The research adds to growing scientific interest in yoga, naturopathy and dietary interventions as complementary approaches for improving overall health and supporting stress regulation among people with hypertension.
(Economy india)
