Exploring the Role of Yoga in Modulating Gut Microbiota in Obesity: A Narrative Review of Mechanistic Insights and Integrative Potential

Abstract

Obesity has emerged as a major global public health concern, with its prevalence rising sharply in recent decades. Increasing evidence links gut dysbiosis with obesity and its associated complications. Factors such as chronic stress, neuroendocrine dysregulation, and sedentary behavior contribute significantly to alterations in gut microbiota. Yoga, as a holistic mind-body practice, may help counter these influences by reducing stress, regulating autonomic nervous system function, and potentially modulating the gut microbiome. This review explores the potential role of Yoga in influencing gut microbiota in individuals with obesity and outlines the plausible mechanisms through which it may confer metabolic benefits. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, Embase, and Web of Science, focusing on studies from the past two decades. A total of 100 peer-reviewed articles, including both human and animal studies, were selected based on their relevance to gut health, obesity, and Yoga-based interventions. While direct studies remain limited, available evidence suggests that Yoga may impact gut microbiota through stress reduction, modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, regulation of cytokines, and enhancement of vagal tone. These effects may collectively reduce inflammation and improve metabolic function. This review proposes a theoretical framework in which Yoga could serve as a supportive, non-pharmacological strategy to help restore gut microbial balance in obesity. Although preliminary findings are encouraging, more rigorous clinical and mechanistic research is needed to validate these effects and establish the role of Yoga in microbiome-targeted obesity interventions.