This archive report was first published on 12 November 2019.
Exercise is a well-established way to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, particularly for people who are overweight or obese.
However, finding time to exercise can be challenging, and researchers have been exploring ways to maximize the health benefits of physical activity.
One study published on The Standard in 2019 found that exercising before breakfast can improve insulin response and reduce the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
Insulin is a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels, and when people don't exercise enough and become overweight or obese, their bodies have to produce more insulin to have this effect.
However, exercising before breakfast can improve insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to use insulin more effectively and reducing the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
The study, which was conducted on a group of overweight or obese men, found that those who exercised before breakfast showed an improved insulin response after the training, compared to those who exercised after eating breakfast.
Additionally, the men who exercised before breakfast also burned about double the amount of fat during exercise than the group who exercised after breakfast.
However, it's essential to note that increased fat burning during exercise does not necessarily lead to greater weight loss, unless the energy balance is different.
Researchers recommend repeating the study in women, as the results may not be the same for both men and women.
It's also worth noting that the study's findings may not apply to high-intensity exercise or weight lifting.
Overall, the study suggests that exercising before breakfast can be a simple and effective way to improve insulin response and reduce the risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
