Everyone knows that exercising is good for health, but when is the best time to exercise for blood sugar control?
We all recognize the importance of regular physical activity. Consistent exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of serious diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
Moreover, exercise can also help protect against type 2 diabetes.
To reap the benefits of exercise, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends that everyone engage in physical activity daily, totaling at least 150 minutes per week.
However, new research indicates that exercising at a specific time of day may be most beneficial for those looking to manage blood sugar levels and lower the risk of diabetes.
The recent study published in the journal Obesity involved 186 adults with an average age of 46 who were classified as overweight or obese. Participants’ physical activity and blood sugar levels were monitored simultaneously over a two-week period using devices.
Evening exercise is the most effective way to lower blood sugar.
The results showed that exercising in the evening is the most effective way to lower blood sugar levels. This was observed when overweight or obese adults engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity in the evening.
Previously, moderate to vigorous exercise had been shown to enhance glucose homeostasis, meaning it helps regulate blood sugar levels. However, there has been limited research on the optimal timing for this activity regarding blood sugar management.
The study’s author, Jonatan R Ruiz, from the University of Granada in Spain, explained: “Our findings highlight the importance of accurately recommending exercise. In clinical practice, healthcare and sports professionals should consider the optimal time of day to enhance the effectiveness of the exercise and physical activity programs they recommend.”
Renee J Rogers, a senior scientist at the University of Kansas Medical Center in the United States – who was not involved in the study, told Eureka Alert: “This research provides deeper insights – instead of simply advising patients to be more active, professionals can recommend that patients engage in regular activity as much as possible and prioritize movement from the afternoon to evening if they want to regulate glucose levels.”
Type 2 diabetes is much more common than type 1, accounting for around 90% of diabetes cases. Common risk factors for this condition include being overweight or obese and a lack of physical activity; however, it can also run in families.
