Is it good for your health to run on an empty stomach in the morning?
Jul 19, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Running on an empty stomach in the morning is not good for your health. Exercising while fasting increases the level of free fatty acids in the bloodstream. Excessively high levels of free fatty acids can produce toxins that damage the heart muscle, potentially leading to arrhythmia or even sudden death. Additionally, exercising on an empty stomach may cause hypoglycemia. Therefore, intense or strenuous exercise should be avoided in the morning before eating.
In general, whether running on an empty stomach in the morning is beneficial depends on individual physical condition and health goals. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. The details are as follows:
1. Beneficial
For individuals who are not suffering from hypoglycemia, and who are not pregnant women, children, elderly people, or those at risk of cardiovascular diseases—especially those aiming for fat loss—running on an empty stomach in the morning may be beneficial. At this time, glycogen stores in the body are relatively low, making the body more likely to use fat as an energy source, which can enhance fat-burning efficiency and support weight management.
2. Not Beneficial
For individuals with hypoglycemia, pregnant women, children, elderly individuals, and those at risk of cardiovascular diseases, running on an empty stomach in the morning may be harmful. Hypoglycemic individuals may experience dizziness, fatigue, or even fainting due to insufficient immediate energy supply. Pregnant women and children might have their growth and developmental needs negatively affected by fasting exercise. For elderly individuals and those with cardiovascular risks, running while fasting could increase cardiac workload and trigger adverse reactions.
To avoid unnecessary physical harm, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Regardless of when you exercise, always adjust the intensity and duration according to your physical condition, avoid overexertion, and ensure adequate hydration and nutrition before and after exercise to maintain bodily balance.
