If you workout later at night should you try to eat before or after your workout?

Both. Your body will need energy to burn to make your workout as effective as possible, a snack like a banana and a cup of yogurt, or a sandwich with wheat bread and peanut butter would be great. If you’re body has no fuel, it will take from stored protein or fat. What usually happens is your body ends up cannibalizing on it’s own muscle for energy. After your workout you’ll want to give the body protein for muscle recovery, if you’re planning on going right to bed soon after, you may not need as many carbohydrates.

Hi Gus. For a “late night” workout I would definitely eat my bigger meal BEFORE working out. I’d save a light “recovery snack” for afterwards. Just my opinion.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
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Gus,

The ADA recommends that the general population have a snack about an hour before a workout. The snack should be relatively high in carbohydrates and moderate in protein while being low in fat. Also, keep in mind the Glycemic Index of the food. A banana is often a safe bet for many people because it has a GI of 70, which is high. Foods with higer GI scores will cause a faster rise in blood glucose, which is good for a workout.

You might want to look into casein protein. It’s a slow-absorbing, complete protein that is generally good for supplying your body with continuous amounts of quality protein over a period of about 8 hours, or while you sleep. Do some research on this and as always, consult a registered dietitian before you make any big changes in your diet!

I hope this was helpful!

I agree with Marlan on checking out the casein protein as you can use it while you sleep that night as well as during your workout.

You could also try a dairy food after your workout because calcium rich foods are suppose to help relax your muscles. I don’t remember where I learned this but it works well for me if I need a good deep sleep.