New research from the University of Granada reveals how exercise timing affects blood sugar levels. The study, published in the journal “Obesity,” found that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in the evening offers the greatest benefit for regulating blood sugar in overweight and obese adults with sedentary lifestyles.
The Power of Evening Workouts
Traditionally, exercise has been known to improve blood sugar control. This latest research suggests there might be an optimal window for maximizing these benefits. The study involved monitoring over 180 adults with overweight or obesity. Researchers tracked their physical activity patterns and blood sugar levels for two weeks. They found that participants who performed more than half (over 50%) of their daily moderate-to-vigorous exercise in the evening (between 6 pm and midnight) had significantly lower blood sugar levels throughout the day, not just after their workout.
Why Evenings Might Be Winning
Experts believe our bodies might be naturally more receptive to insulin, the hormone regulating blood sugar, during the evening hours. This evening sensitivity could explain why exercise during this time is particularly effective in helping muscles utilize blood sugar, leading to lower overall levels.
The Call to Action: Move More in the Evening
The study’s findings suggest that timing your exercise routine could be a valuable strategy for managing blood sugar, especially for those at risk of pre-diabetes or struggling with weight management. While further research is needed, incorporating evening activity into your routine shows promise.
