Have you ever tried exercising on an empty stomach? This has been an ongoing discussion among fitness circles with one camp firm on the belief that a pre-fuel snack is necessary before any exercise while the opposing camp is equally convinced that exercising on an empty stomach is the most efficient way to maximize the exercise's benefits. Let's take a look at some of the medical opinions available to settle this matter.

Insulin Resistance

In seems that current medical evidence available affirms that exercising on an empty stomach would provide a better result after all. According to Dr Phoenyx Austin in her article for Thrillist, exercising on an empty stomach will make your body more sensitive to insulin, staging the way for an easier and more efficient body fat reduction. It is important to note that unchecked insulin resistance is a major contributory factor that can result in weight gain and diabetes in the long run.

Human Growth Hormone

Dr Mercola also supports the exercising while in the fasted state option. In his article, he points out that exercise while in the fasted state promotes the production of human growth hormone (HGH) in the body. Those familiar with bodybuilding and weight training would probably know the amazing effects HGH has on the body which include body fat reduction, building more lean muscles and improving the body's healing rate.

Intermittent Fasting

Finally, a word on intermittent fasting which runs counter to the commonly held belief about the superiority of smaller but more frequent meals. If you are quite serious in your fitness options, you must have heard of the myth that smaller but frequent meals are the ideal way to lose weight, as it has been theorized that this method will encourage a higher metabolic rate. This is not the case and you will find sufficient resource to prove it such as this article from Authority Nutrition.