Exploring the Impact of Yoga on Autonomic Nervous System Function, Social Functioning, and Quality of Life in People...

As per the Rome IV criteria, a disorder of gut-brain interaction such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterized by recurrent abdominal pain occurring at least 1 day per week for the previous 3 months and associated changes in bowel movements (defecation, stool frequency, or stool form). These symptoms must have begun at least 6 months prior to diagnosis. IBS affects 4% to 7% of the Indian population, with a higher prevalence observed in women and younger individuals. The present randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a 3-month yoga intervention on IBS management. The study included 202 people (ages 18-45) diagnosed with IBS according to the Rome IV criteria. Participants were divided into a yoga intervention group (n = 102) and a control group (n = 100). Both groups underwent baseline and follow-up assessments to measure autonomic function and quality of life. The yoga group showed significant improvements in autonomic function, with reductions in resting heart rate (p < 0.0001) and the low- to high-frequency ratio of heart rate variability (p < 0.0001), as well as an increase in the Valsalva ratio (p = 0.0100). Additionally, this group experienced notable improvements in their quality of life as measured by the IBS-QOL score. Our findings suggest that yoga could be a valuable complementary therapy for IBS by enhancing autonomic regulation and improving overall well-being.