Yoga and Cardiovascular Health: Meta-Analysis of Clinical Studies

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, necessitating evidence-based complementary interventions alongside conventional treatment approaches. This meta-analysis examines the efficacy of yoga interventions on cardiovascular health parameters.

Objective: To systematically evaluate the effects of yoga practice on cardiovascular disease risk factors including blood pressure, heart rate, lipid profiles, and clinical outcomes through comprehensive analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect. Randomized controlled trials examining yoga interventions for cardiovascular health outcomes were included. Primary outcomes measured were systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and lipid parameters. Secondary outcomes included quality of life measures and cardiovascular events.

Results: Meta-analysis of included studies demonstrated significant improvements in cardiovascular parameters. Yoga interventions resulted in meaningful reductions in systolic blood pressure (5.85 mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (4.12 mmHg), and resting heart rate (6.59 beats/min). Additional benefits were observed in lipid profiles, with reductions in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels. Quality of life measures showed consistent improvement across studies.

Conclusions: Yoga demonstrates significant promise as a complementary intervention for cardiovascular health, with evidence supporting its efficacy in reducing key cardiovascular risk factors. These findings suggest yoga may serve as a valuable adjunct to conventional cardiovascular disease prevention and management strategies.