Evening training improves glucose regulation in overweight women: study

For women at risk of insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, physical activity in the evening can significantly improve glucose regulation. A new study published in the journal Obesity shows that moderate to vigorous physical activity between 6 p.m. and midnight has a positive effect on glucose metabolism, especially in overweight and obese adults.

The study highlights the importance of timing in exercise routines. “Choosing the ideal time of day appears to be an emerging strategy to enhance the benefits of physical activity on glucose metabolism, especially in people with insulin resistance or at risk for type 2 diabetes,” the researchers note. This discovery is particularly important for women who often juggle many responsibilities and find evening training more feasible.

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Granada (UGR) in Spain, involved 186 overweight or obese adults, with men and women equally distributed. Study participants, with an average age of 47, wore an accelerometer and continuous glucose monitor for 14 days to measure their physical activity and glucose levels around the clock. The results showed that evening physical activity had a noticeable positive effect on glucose regulation in both men and women. However, the findings are particularly important for women, who may benefit more because they are more likely to develop insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

In addition to time, the study highlights that the benefits of physical activity are more pronounced in people with impaired glucose metabolism, such as those with elevated glucose levels or fasting insulin resistance. “This information may be crucial in improving the effectiveness of exercise interventions in these groups,” the authors emphasize. Previous research has not established whether the time of day for physical activity – morning, afternoon or evening – can maximize cardio-metabolic benefits. This study fills this gap by suggesting that evening training may be strategically beneficial for at-risk individuals.

Women who want to optimize their health habits may consider scheduling physical activity in the evening. This adjustment could not only fit better into their busy schedules, but also provide greater health benefits, particularly in controlling glucose levels and reducing the risk of diabetes.

Overall, this study offers valuable information for women seeking to improve their metabolic health. Evening exercise is proving to be a simple but effective strategy for improving glucose regulation, making it an important consideration for healthcare professionals and fitness enthusiasts alike.