Improving Care Quality for Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease Through a Structured Yogic Intervention: Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial

Ann Neurosci. 2026 May 22:09727531261444545. doi: 10.1177/09727531261444545. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world. It is strongly linked to obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Yoga, which includes asanas, pranayama, shat-karmas and meditation, may offer a holistic approach to improve the liver, metabolism and mental health.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a 60-min yoga module in improving liver health and metabolic parameters in MASLD patients.

METHODS: This open-label, two-arm, randomised controlled trial enrolled 72 adults aged 18-60 years diagnosed with MASLD, who received standard care at a hospital in Dehradun. Participants were randomised equally into a yoga group, which received a 60-min online yoga module 5 days per week for 3 months, or a control group receiving standard treatment alone. Key assessments include ultrasound measurement of liver fat, liver enzymes (serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase [SGPT], serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase [SGOT]), HbA1c, lipid profile, body mass index, blood pressure, mental health and quality of life. Data collection occurred at baseline and 3 months post-intervention.

RESULTS: The study is designed to assess improvements in hepatic steatosis and metabolic and psychosocial parameters following intervention.

CONCLUSION: This trial will provide evidence on the role of yoga as an adjunct therapy in MASLD management.

PMID:42183571 | PMC:PMC13197330 | DOI:10.1177/09727531261444545