self-select to exercise at different times of day,” according to Halliday, who wasn’t involved in the new study.
For example, timing of exercise may result in changes to diet or sleep patterns that drive the improvements in blood sugar and reduced use of glucose-lowering medications, she notes.
“It will be important to see if this observation is replicated in other analyses,” Halliday adds.
Exercising with type 2 diabetes
Halliday’s advice? “I would encourage people to exercise when they are most likely to consistently do it, whether that is first thing in the morning or the afternoon,” she suggests.
“Personal preference, work schedule, and when workout buddies may be available all influence when anyone chooses to exercise, which is perfectly fine,” Halliday adds.
Aim to meet the current physical activity guidelines from the American Diabetes Association, which call for 150 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic activity each week and two or three weekly sessions of resistance or strength training exercise.
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“I would strongly encourage people with type 2 diabetes to discuss their exercise plans with their medical care team so that appropriate follow-up and changes to medications can be made as the exercise program progresses,” Halliday says.
Dr. Ruchi Mathur agrees. She is an endocrinologist at the Cedars-Sinai Diabetes Outpatient Treatment and Education Center in Los Angeles.
She points out that everyone who exercised saw a reduction in blood sugar, regardless of timing. “It was more pronounced in those with afternoon activity,” says Mathur, who has no ties to the new research.
“Movement is the key, as is consistency,” she notes. “Do something you enjoy, and do it with someone you enjoy, and perhaps, make some time in the afternoon to accomplish those goals.”