New Study Shows Exercising in the Evening Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Granada in Spain has found that engaging in moderate to intense physical activity in the evening is most beneficial for reducing blood sugar levels in sedentary adults with overweight and obesity.
The study, published in the journal Obesity, aimed to determine the optimal time for exercise to lower blood sugar levels. The researchers analyzed the physical activity and blood sugar levels of 186 patients over a period of 14 days.
Participants were categorized based on their daily physical activity levels, with specific focus on activities performed in the morning, afternoon, evening, or a combination of these time frames. The results showed that engaging in more than 50% of moderate to intense physical activity in the evening was associated with a decrease in blood sugar levels during the day and night compared to being inactive.
This association was particularly strong in individuals with glucose regulation disorders. The researchers emphasized the importance of timing in prescribing exercise programs to improve their effectiveness. Jonatan R. Ruiz, a professor of physical activity and health and co-author of the study, highlighted the significance of precision in exercise prescription for clinical practice.
Overall, the findings suggest that exercising in the evening can have a positive impact on blood sugar control, especially for individuals with overweight and obesity. Healthcare professionals should consider the optimal timing of exercise when designing physical activity programs for their patients.