Studies Yoga relieves irritable bowel syndrome

Patients with irritable bowel syndrome can reduce their discomfort and medication through yoga. This is shown by two studies from the USA.

Scientists have reviewed the effects of a special yoga program for irritable bowel syndrome patients. This consisted of alternating breathing, exercise and relaxation exercises and was reviewed over a 24-month period in 97 patients.

Yoga as a remedy for irritable bowel. Picture: nuzza11 - fotolia

The study participants were divided into three groups during the first 12 weeks. Group 1 (yoga group) practiced 1 h three times a week, limiting their intake to three days a week. A second group (combination group) practiced with group 1, but took their medication as usual. The third group served as a control group (waiting list), continued on their usual medication and was required to take a 60-minute walk three times a week.

At the end of the first twelve-week phase, participants in the control group completed the same yoga program as groups 1 and 2 previously. In a third phase, all study participants from the three groups were able to practice the specified yoga exercises once a week for a further 12 weeks (follow-up). Study).

In both the yoga and combination groups, the condition of the patients improved significantly more significantly after the first study phase compared to the baseline and compared to the control group. The participants in the combination group were able to completely stop or greatly reduce the intake of the previously used drugs.

In Phase 2, the waiting list group benefited equally as well in terms of their disease status and quality of life. The study can be found here. (Pm)