Shirley Telles
Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar, India,
Swami Vivekananda Yoga Research Foundation, Bengaluru, India
shirleytelles@gmail.com

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Abstract

The prevalence of obesity has increased world-wide predisposing individuals to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality due to type 2 diabetes and other diseases. A variety of factors contribute to obesity. There is interest in understanding whether abnormalities in the hypothalamic regulation of feeding-satiety mechanisms may be contributory. This is particularly the case as certain hormones (e.g., leptin, adiponectin, resistin) produced by the adipose tissue act on the hypothalamus and are associated with obesity and obesity-related complications. This presentation would emphasize on the importance of two such hormones, viz., leptin and ghrelin (secreted by the gastric lining). In general, leptin circulates at levels proportional to body fat. It enters the central nervous system (CNS) in proportion to its plasma concentration and leptin receptors are found in brain neurons involved in regulating energy intake and expenditure. Circulating leptin controls food intake and energy expenditure by acting on receptors in the mediobasal hypothalamus. The effect of yoga practice on serum leptin levels in obese persons and in those with type 2 diabetes have shown beneficial results. Possible mechanisms would be presented explaining these effects.