Here's why you should do cardio on an empty stomach
What's the story
It is often said that you should start your day with a workout session. One way to do so is by performing fasted cardio. But what really is it? Fasted cardio is nothing but working out on an empty stomach when the digestive system hasn't started processing food, which is generally the case in the morning before your first meal of the day.
Benefits #1,2
It improves heart health and aids weight loss
Heart health: Your heart is a muscle and it needs regular working. So, start your day by cycling, running, swimming, or brisk walking. These simple cardio exercises increase the heart rate, help balance blood pressure, and also lower down cholesterol levels. Weight Loss: Fasted cardio helps you burn more fat as glycogen would still be in your body, allowing you to burn fat (safely).
Information
Fasted cardio leads to faster and sustained weight loss
Fats and carbohydrates are two main energy sources needed for exercise. However, since glycogen levels (carbs) are depleted through night while sleeping, and you don't consume anything before fasted cardio, all the energy during exercise is derived from fat stores, thereby leading to faster weight-loss.
Benefits #3,4
It increases energy and boosts mood
The way you start your day determines the quality of the rest of your day, which is why fasted cardio is highly recommended. Energy: Morning exercises give you longer-lasting energy than a cup of coffee, and help keep you energized throughout the day. Mood: The more you sweat, the more feel-good hormones will be released in your body, thus bringing better mood.
Health effects
The other side of the coin
However, for some people, fasted cardio could mean less productivity due to reduced supply of glucose in the bloodstream. Further, it is a big no-no for bodybuilders, as it can burn the building blocks of protein, thereby affecting muscle mass. Hence, whether you should go for fasted cardio or not depends on your fitness goal.