Can Yoga Restore Mitochondrial Health in PCOS? A Randomized Trial on Oxidative Stress, Hormones & Depression

About This Episode

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is increasingly recognized as a systemic lifestyle disorder driven by oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In this episode, we explore a randomized controlled trial examining the effects of a 12-week yoga intervention in women with PCOS. The study demonstrates that regular yoga practice significantly improves mitochondrial DNA copy number, mitochondrial integrity, antioxidant capacity, hormonal balance, telomere length, and depressive symptoms while reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Drawing on molecular, cellular, and clinical biomarkers, this episode unpacks how yoga may act as a powerful adjunct therapy for managing PCOS at both the biological and psychological levels. This discussion bridges modern biomedical research with mind body practice, offering evidence-based insight for clinicians, researchers, and individuals seeking integrative approaches to PCOS management.