Should People With High Cholesterol Do Yoga?

Yoga can help lower cholesterol levels as it involves deep breathing good for relaxation of body and mind. Deep breathing exercises lead to stress reduction that is good for heart. Also, twisting postures promote healthy digestion.

How science relates yoga with cholesterol level?

While the studies done on yoga are limited but most studies suggest that yoga is effective in controlling cholesterol.

One such study conducted on 100 people with type 2 diabetes in 2013 showed promising results. The study conducted over a period of 3 months and the participants could continue with their medicines. And the participants witnessed reduction in their total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL (low density lipoproteins) levels. Also, their HDL (high density lipoproteins) levels were improved.

A study on people who do regular exercises in 2014 revealed that yoga can promote LDL and HDL levels. Also, yoga is effective in boosting blood pressure level.

Another study done on 24 women in 2019 found improvement in their lipid profiles. They performed yoga thrice a week for 26 weeks and results showed reduction in total cholesterol and LDL levels. But it didn’t affect their HDL levels.

Yoga exercises good for heart

Seated forward bend involves inhaling a deep breath and stretching the spine. It reduces stress and helps with digestion.

Child’s pose involves inhaling and exhaling freely while sitting back towards your feet. It allows deep relaxation and reduction in stress.

Seated spinal twist involves switching spine from one position to another and holding up to 30 seconds or longer in one position.

Wheel pose is a more advanced pose that could be helpful in strengthening of the body.

Legs up on the wall improves blood flow to the heart. Also, it reduces anxiety and many health conditions.

Disclaimer: The claims made about yoga reducing cholesterol level require more research and studies. People should practice yoga keeping their overall health in mind.