Are you an early bird or a night owl? Research published in the journal ‘Experimental Physiology’ has found that wake/sleep cycles cause metabolic differences and alter our body’s preference for energy sources. The researchers found that people who are ‘early birds’ (those active in the morning) rely more on fat as an energy source and are more active during the day with higher levels of aerobic fitness than ‘night owls’. On the other hand, ‘night owls’ (those active later in the day and night) use less fat for energy at rest and during exercise. This reduced ability to use fat for energy, means that fats may build up in the body and increase risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The researchers also found that early birds are more physically active and have higher fitness levels than night owls.
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