“An innovative approach” according to the researchers.
We know that physical activity helps us stay healthy and notably reduces the risk of cancer. Exercising is generally good. But according to a new German study, it seems that practicing your activity at certain times of the day can have an influence on reducing the risk of cancer.
The scientists relied on data from 86,252 Britons aged 42 to 79. They observed at what time of day they practiced their physical activity:
- throughout the day
- at the end of the day
- at the start of the day (around 8 a.m.) and at the end of the day (around 6 p.m.)
- midday and late evening
“We focused on the incidence of colorectal cancer given the compelling evidence of its relationship with physical activity” explained the authors. After 5 years, 529 cases of colorectal cancer were recorded. “Our study highlights that not only is physical activity important in reducing colorectal cancer risk, but the timing of peak activity throughout the day could play a crucial role”said Professor Michael Leitzmann, lead author of the study.
According to the results published in the journal “BMC Medicine”doing sports at lunchtime, at the end of the day or in the evening had no impact on the risk of cancer. On the other hand, “physical activity at the beginning and end of the day was associated with a reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer, beyond the benefits of overall activity” the scientists said. Two peaks of activity would be particularly beneficial, namely 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Doing sport at these times would reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 11%. “If this finding is confirmed, timing of physical activity could emerge as an innovative approach to preventing colorectal cancer.”rejoiced the researchers. Additional research is now needed to corroborate the role of activity timing in cancer prevention.