This study looked at whether a 12-week Maharishi Ayurveda diet and lifestyle program was practical and acceptable for adults with Type 2 Diabetes. The program was offered through Family Health Centers in North Carolina and combined three parts: an Ayurvedic-based diet plan, guided yoga postures, and a breathing practice.
Seventeen participants started the program, and twelve completed the full 12- week intervention. The study focused on whether participants were able to follow the program regularly, complete study activities, and stay in the study for the full period. Participants were asked to practice the program at least five days per week and received regular support through scheduled and as-needed communication via phone, text messages, email, and video-based materials throughout the study.
The study also tracked changes in daily health habits, blood sugar levels, body weight, waist size, stress, and diabetes-related emotional well-being. Some information was collected using questionnaires, and some measurements were taken through clinic visits or home glucose monitoring.
Most participants who completed the program were able to follow the activities as instructed. Changes were observed in blood sugar levels, body weight, waist size, and measures of stress and diabetes-related distress. No serious safety concerns were reported.
Overall, the study showed that this Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle program could be safely carried out in a primary care setting. The results support further research with larger groups to better understand its potential benefits over time.