Effect of yoga on depression in hypothyroidism: A pilot study

The prevalence of hypothyroidism among Indian women is 15.8%. Depression is frequently reported in hypothyroidism. Yoga is an effective intervention for depression. However, the influence of yoga on depression in patients with hypothyroidism has not been studied.

The present study investigated the effect of a 3-month integrated yoga intervention (3-IY) on depression, lipid indices, and serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (sTSH) levels among female patients having hypothyroidism, and mild-to-moderate depression.

The present single-arm pre-post design study was conducted in thirty-eight women (average age 34.2 ± 4.7 years). Participants received a 3-IY comprising asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques for 60 min daily (5 days a week). Depression, sTSH, lipid profile indices, Body Mass Index (BMI), fatigue, anxiety, and stress were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Thyroid medication was kept constant during the study period. Data were analysed using R Studio software.

A significant (P < 0.05) reduction in depression (58%), sTSH (37%), BMI (6%), fatigue (64%), anxiety (57%), lipid profile indices (HLD increased significanty), and stress (55%) levels was observed after 3 months, compared with the corresponding baseline levels.

The 3-IY is useful for reducing depression, dyslipidemia, and sTSH in women with hypothyroidism and depression. Further studies with a larger sample size and a robust research design using objective variables must be conducted to strengthen the study findings.