Is it good to run on an empty stomach in the morning?
Disease description:
I am a 46-year-old male. I have slightly low blood sugar, but for health and self-management purposes, I run on an empty stomach every morning. However, I've heard that running on an empty stomach may not be good. Doctor, is it advisable to run on an empty stomach in the morning?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Whether it is good to run on an empty stomach in the morning doesn't have a definitive answer, as it depends on individual physical conditions and running habits.
Running on an empty stomach may help improve fat-burning efficiency because, with lower blood glucose levels, the body relies more on fat as an energy source, which could benefit weight loss and improve body composition. Additionally, morning exercise on an empty stomach can boost metabolic rate, positively affecting energy expenditure throughout the day.
For some individuals, running on an empty stomach might not be suitable. During fasting, low blood sugar levels could lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue during exercise. People with diabetes or a tendency toward hypoglycemia should be especially cautious about running on an empty stomach.
The decision to run on an empty stomach in the morning should be based on one's personal physical condition and running experience. It is advisable to consult a physician or professional coach before trying it, to ensure safety and achieve optimal results. At the same time, maintaining adequate hydration and avoiding prolonged, high-intensity exercise is important to prevent excessive physical strain.
