I have a weird workout schedule. I usually do it late (11 or 12pm) How should I manage my eating timing?

Question

For example, if I workout at 11 or 12, and then eat a good amount of protein (hot pocket, yogurt, milk) right after the workout, does that help or harm the muscle building process? Thanks!

Answer 1

After every big workout (lifting weights), you should have some protein...protein will help the muscles you just worked on grow, as well as keep them from being so sore later. But then, at midnight, you shouldn't eat heavy. So if you insist on working out at night, scarf down a protein shake with fruit in it.
As for your eating, a hot pocket may have protein, but it's also got a lot of junk that you really don't want in your body while you sleep. Keep a good diet of a meal every 4 hours (well balanced), and you really probably shouldn't eat much after 8pm...10 maybe, but that's really pushing it b/c the metabolism slows down at night.
And for the muscle building process, your muscles grow while you sleep and rest. So don't lift every night, but maybe 3-4 nights a week, and stick to cardio on the other days (or rest).

Answer 2

Obviously, you dont want to eat right before the workout. But you ALSO dont want to be working out in the middle of the day only having eaten breakfast. The best bet would be a mid-morning snack which fits your dietary needs/desires (protein bar, protein shake, fruit, nuts). Personally, I'd follow your workout with a high-protein shake. This is easily processed by your body and will help with the muscle building process. But, I'd go ahead and have a normal lunch about an hour later. So, take a shake with you to the gym. Mix it up with water (yea, it doesnt taste the best) and drink it when you're done working out (before you change out of your workout clothes). By the time your changed and on your way, it'll be just about time to think about getting/preparing/finding lunch.

Answer 3

did you mean 11pm - 12am? If you did, then I would just eat a protein supplement, and stack some aminos.........about an hour before bed.....if that IS your bedtime. Eat any complex carbs you need earlier. Maybe eat a bowl of oatmeal sweetened with Splenda about an hour before workout.

Answer 4

your body has a natural cycle if your working out at 12 you need to consider the process your body goes through to wind down to sleep, to prepare for muscle recovery and a morning elimination cycle, if your serious about your program pay the fee for a nutritionist and trainer, they can incorporate a program that fits your schedule,bodytype and age,

Answer 5

yogurt and low fat milk would most definitely help you. My trainer told me not to eat before sleep though.

So better do it after dinner.