Does exercising on an empty stomach burn muscle?
Feb 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
It is possible to see no change in weight after one week of exercise, which may be normal and could be due to insufficient physical activity, uncontrolled diet, or other factors. Besides these reasons, it might also be related to unhealthy lifestyle habits. It is recommended to maintain regular daily routines, go to bed early and wake up early, and avoid staying up late, as these practices can help with weight loss.
Exercising on an empty stomach generally leads to muscle loss.
Exercising on an empty stomach typically refers to physical activity performed more than eight hours after the last meal. During exercise, the body requires energy, but when done in a fasting state, there is insufficient energy available from food intake, causing the body to break down muscle tissue for fuel. Therefore, exercising on an empty stomach usually results in muscle loss. Although fasting exercise can burn muscle, blood sugar levels are low at this time, increasing the risk of dizziness, palpitations, or even fainting during the workout, which is detrimental to health. Additionally, exercise accelerates metabolism and blood circulation, leading to excessive fluid loss and making dehydration more likely. For these reasons, exercising on an empty stomach is generally not recommended.
Exercise should be approached with proper methods. It is advisable to choose appropriate techniques and timing when working out—ensuring that the intensity is neither too low nor excessive—to avoid muscle and skeletal injuries that could interfere with normal daily activities and quality of life.
