How Exercise Timing Could Impact Colorectal Cancer Risk

New research indicates that when you exercise may be as important as how often you exercise when it comes to reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. According to recent findings, exercising during specific times of the day—namely in the morning or evening—could provide greater protective effects against colorectal cancer, a form of cancer that continues to rise globally.

Morning and Evening Exercise: What Does the Research Say?

A study published in Medical News Today and shared by AOL Health found that exercise performed either early in the morning or late in the evening might significantly lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer. While exercise in general is known to be a powerful preventive measure, this research highlights the potential importance of aligning physical activity with the body’s circadian rhythm.

Dr. Anton Bilchik’s Insights on the Study Findings

Dr. Anton Bilchik, a prominent surgical oncologist and expert in gastrointestinal cancers, shared his perspective on these groundbreaking findings. He emphasized the role of exercise in cancer prevention and noted the significance of the study’s focus on the timing of physical activity.

“The results of this study are particularly promising because they suggest that exercise can play a role in regulating cancer-related biological processes through the body’s natural circadian rhythm,” explained Dr. Bilchik.

According to Dr. Bilchik, aligning physical activity with the body’s internal clock may enhance its benefits by optimizing metabolic and hormonal responses, which could contribute to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

Understanding the Circadian Rhythm’s Role

The circadian rhythm is the body’s natural 24-hour cycle that influences many physiological processes, including metabolism, digestion, and hormone regulation. Dr. Bilchik highlighted that exercising in the morning might help regulate cortisol levels—a hormone involved in stress response—while evening exercise could support the body’s natural insulin sensitivity.

“Morning exercise can be beneficial for regulating cortisol, a key hormone that plays a role in stress and inflammation,” Dr. Bilchik noted. “This may be particularly useful in reducing cancer-related inflammation.”

In contrast, exercising in the evening may enhance the body’s insulin response, another key factor in reducing cancer risk. High insulin levels have been linked to increased cancer growth, so improved insulin sensitivity could offer protective effects.

A Simple Strategy for Cancer Prevention

Dr. Bilchik emphasized that while exercise is a well-known method for cancer prevention, this research provides a new approach to consider. He suggests that individuals looking to reduce their cancer risk might benefit from incorporating exercise into their routine at specific times of the day.

“These findings offer an easy-to-implement strategy for individuals seeking to lower their colorectal cancer risk,” said Dr. Bilchik. “Simply adjusting your workout time could enhance the benefits of physical activity.”

While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved, Dr. Bilchik believes that this study underscores the importance of both exercise and the timing of exercise as part of a comprehensive cancer prevention plan.

Practical Takeaways for Patients

Based on the study’s findings and Dr. Bilchik’s insights, here are some practical tips for incorporating exercise into your daily routine:

• Morning Exercise: If you prefer working out in the morning, aim to exercise before breakfast. This may help regulate cortisol levels and support the body’s natural rhythm.
• Evening Exercise: If you can’t fit in a workout until later in the day, don’t worry. Evening exercise may still provide protective effects by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation.
• Consistency is Key: While timing may play a role, Dr. Bilchik emphasizes that the most important factor is regular physical activity. Whether you choose morning or evening, the goal is to stay active.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Anton Bilchik

“This study provides new insight into how we can optimize exercise for cancer prevention,” concluded Dr. Bilchik. “While we have long known that exercise is beneficial, understanding the best times to exercise adds another layer of prevention strategies that can be easily adopted by patients.”

As colorectal cancer rates continue to rise, particularly among younger adults, this research highlights an actionable approach to reduce risk. With expert guidance from leading specialists like Dr. Bilchik, patients can make informed decisions about their health and potentially reduce their cancer risk through simple lifestyle adjustments.