Optimal Exercise Time for Blood Sugar Lowering

Research from Spain suggests that overweight or obese individuals should exercise in the evening to better manage their blood sugar levels.

“Our findings emphasize the significance of precision exercise prescriptions,” stated Jonatan R. Ruiz, a professor of physical activity and health at the University of Granada, on Monday.

“In clinical settings, certified sports and medical professionals should consider the best time of day to maximize the effectiveness of exercise and physical activity programs,” he added.

The study monitored the blood sugar and physical activity of 186 overweight or obese adults, categorizing their exercise times into three slots: 6 a.m. to noon, noon to 6 p.m., and 6 p.m. to midnight.

Evening workouts were associated with lower daytime, nighttime, and overall blood sugar levels in both men and women.

This effect was more pronounced in participants with prediabetes, a common condition that can progress to Type 2 diabetes.

Currently, over 38 million Americans suffer from diabetes, a condition marked by elevated blood sugar levels.

These findings are set to be published in the Obesity Society’s flagship journal, Obesity, later this year.

A study from the UK, released in April, reached similar conclusions, suggesting that nighttime exercise might reduce morning blood sugar levels.

Additional research indicates that exercising later in the day, particularly after meals, can help control blood sugar spikes.

For instance, a May 2023 study found that adults with Type 2 diabetes achieved the best blood sugar results when they were most active between 1:43 p.m. and 5 p.m.

“Afternoon exercise showed the most benefits, but the reasons for this remain unclear, and current evidence on the best time to exercise is mixed,” Dr. Lucy Chambers, head of research communications at Diabetes UK, told CNN after those findings were published last year.

“If you’re living with Type 2 diabetes, the key is to find an exercise you enjoy and can integrate into your routine long-term,” continued Chambers, who was not involved in the study, “whether it’s before work, during your lunch break, or in the evening.”

Source: nypost

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