Best Time To Exercise To Keep Blood Sugar Stable

Illustration of the best time for exercise to maintain blood sugar levels (Pexel/Tirachard Kumtanom)

JAKARTA - Keeping blood sugar levels stable is one of the important steps to support overall body health. With controlled blood sugar levels, the body can work more efficiently in absorbing nutrients and preventing various chronic diseases.

One effective way to maintain blood sugar stability is to actively move through exercise regularly.

In addition to training muscle strength, exercise also plays a role in managing blood sugar levels better. Blood sugar management is important because it is directly related to the process of absorbing the nutrients that the body needs.

Regarding the benefits of exercise to blood sugar levels, a report published by Eating Well revealed that the best time to exercise in supporting blood sugar management is in the afternoon to evening.

The study, which was published in 2022 through the journal Diabetologi, was conducted by the Dutch Obesity Epidemiology Team (NEO) involving 775 participants who have a single lifestyle.

The study found that participants who exercise in the afternoon experienced a decrease in insulin resistance by up to 18 percent, while those who exercise at night recorded a 25 percent decrease in insulin resistance. On the other hand, participants who are active in the morning do not show a significant decrease in insulin resistance or liver fat levels.

Although the reasons behind the differences in these results still require further research, in general this study concluded that afternoon and evening exercise has the best potential benefits for managing blood sugar levels.

However, this does not mean that other sports are not useful. Active movement whenever remains the right decision to maintain overall body health.

Various simple sporting activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and running can be done to improve heart health while lowering blood sugar levels. If done regularly, the benefits that can be obtained include increased blood circulation, decreased insulin resistance, and better weight management.

Muscle mass formation exercises can also help manage blood sugar levels. The use of tools such as resistance bands in this exercise supports the body in utilizing glucose for muscle formation. This exercise is recommended to be done two to three times a week.

For those looking for exercise with milder intensity, yoga can be an option. Yoga helps lower the hormone cortisol, known as the stress hormone, so it helps maintain a balance of blood sugar levels. With these various choices of exercise, keeping blood sugar levels stable becomes easier to do as part of a healthy lifestyle.