Besides regular exercise, the timing of exercise also affects blood sugar control. New research shows that exercising in the afternoon and evening improves insulin sensitivity and stabilizes blood sugar better than exercising in the morning.
Controlling blood sugar depends not only on diet but also on daily lifestyle habits. Exercise plays a crucial role in this, helping the body utilize energy efficiently and maintain metabolic stability.
However, regular exercise alone is not enough, as effectiveness varies depending on how you schedule your time throughout the day, according to the health website Verywell Health .
Many people maintain a habit of exercising early in the morning hoping to improve their health, but the reality is that the body responds better to exercise at certain times.
Controlling blood sugar depends not only on diet but also on daily lifestyle habits.
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Afternoon and evening are effective times.
A review published in the journal Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism showed that exercising in the afternoon and evening improved blood glucose control better than exercising in the morning in people with type 2 diabetes.
This activity also helps increase insulin sensitivity. The intensity of the exercise also directly affects the results.
Exercise affects the body's biological clock. When exercised at the right time, the body readjusts its circadian rhythm, thereby supporting more effective blood sugar stabilization.
Why are afternoons and evenings more advantageous?
The body has lower levels of stress hormones at the end of the day. This helps limit the spike in blood sugar during exercise. Muscles are also more efficient at this time, so they absorb glucose better, contributing to stable blood sugar levels.
Afternoon workouts typically take place after lunch. At this time, blood sugar has naturally risen, and exercise helps lower blood sugar levels. Conversely, morning workouts may cause blood sugar to rise even higher and offer less metabolic improvement.
Inflammation and blood sugar levels are often higher after morning exercise compared to afternoon exercise, especially in people with type 2 diabetes.
A training schedule should be tailored to your individual circadian rhythm.
Moderate-to-high intensity exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or resistance training offer good benefits.
Those who are used to exercising in the morning can still maintain it if their bodies respond well. Experts recommend monitoring blood sugar before and after exercise to determine the most suitable time, rather than necessarily switching to the evening, according to the health website Verywell Health .
People with diabetes should discuss any changes to their exercise routine with their doctor. This can affect meal times and medication schedules.
Maintaining regular exercise remains the most important factor. Exercise that fits into your daily routine helps keep your body healthy and your blood sugar stable.