The Daily Curve

The Insulin Time Zones

Your body handles the same food differently across the day. Insulin sensitivity peaks in the morning and falls steadily until the kitchen closes at 7pm. Tap a zone in the bar below to see what to eat — and what to leave for tomorrow morning.

6am10am2pm6pm9pm12am

Peak Zone

6am–2pm

Insulin sensitivity is highest in the morning. Your body handles natural sugars from fruit and starches most efficiently between waking and early afternoon — this is when fruit juices belong.

What to consume

  • Fresh fruit (any kind)
  • Fruit-based juices
  • Vegetable juices
  • Whole-food meals with protein, fat, and fiber
  • Smoothies with fruit

What to avoid

  • Refined sugar
  • Sweetened drinks
  • Highly processed carbohydrates eaten alone