Are afternoon workouts the best bet to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer?

The study found that moderate-to-intense exercise any time of the day was better at reducing the risk of death from any cause, including heart disease and cancer, than no exercise at all. While the study didn’t aim to find out why exercise times might affect our health, it did say that the reason might be related to our bodies’ circadian rhythms, which are the physical, mental, and behavioral patterns that follow a 24-hour cycle. according to dr Sanjeev Gera, director and head of cardiology at Fortis Hospital in Noida, our bodies are more adaptable to any level of exercise because the basal metabolic rate (BMR) is higher in the afternoon hours. “Afternoon exercise is less likely to impact the circadian rhythm because there is less hormonal disruption and a positive catabolic state,” he said.

Is it a good idea to exercise in the afternoon?

Exercising any time of the day is better than not exercising at all But afternoon exercise can bring other benefits like weight loss, better sugar control, and a positive impact on mental health. A practice
At any time of the day, especially in the afternoon, and in any form, it has a positive impact on heart health in terms of weight loss, better control of blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels. Lower post-exercise stress levels at work also improve heart health.

When is the best time to exercise?

The best time to exercise is when we can. However, because our BMR is higher in the afternoon hours, our bodies are more adaptable to any level of exercise. Afternoon or evening exercise has less impact on the circadian rhythm as there is less hormonal imbalance and a positive catabolic state.

How does the timing of exercise affect our body?

Many studies have attempted to examine the effects of exercise timing on overall health, but a recent large study of 90,000 people concluded that midday exercise leads to better life expectancy
lower risk of heart attacks or sleep disorders. It is known that morning exercises lead to more weight loss and less muscle strength. Exercising late in the evening can disrupt circadian rhythms. But exercise is always better than no exercise.

We have spikes in blood pressure and other hormones like cortisol in the morning and again before bed. The body is therefore considered to be most productive between the two peaks, when metabolism is at its best and the heart, blood vessels, hormones, muscles, joints and nervous system are well nourished and primed.

Who Benefits Most from Afternoon Exercise?

The greatest beneficiaries are the elderly, the overweight, those with pre-existing heart conditions, and night shift workers. This is because they feel more energetic in the late afternoon than they do in the morning.

Is the timing different for men and women?

As such, there aren’t huge differences between men and women when it comes to exercise times, but one study suggested that women burn more fat than men when they exercise in the morning, and the reason could be differences in their hormonal milieu.

After how many hours of lunch can you exercise?

The best time to exercise after meals depends on the intensity of the exercise, the composition of the meal, and the hormonal response to the food. According to the recommendations, however, the ideal time interval should be
at least two hours after a normal meal, but can also be an hour after a snack.

why dr Sanjeev Gera?

dr Sanjeev Gera, Director and Head of Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Noida. He has extensive experience of more than 20 years. He is known for his evidence-based, patient-centric, and cost-effective approach to heart disease. He is also recognized with numerous awards on various international platforms.

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