Late evening eating

Question
I typically go from work straight to the gym and don't get home until 9:00 and am famished.  I usually head to bed by 10:30 or 11:00 and am wondering what foods should I be trying to eat to avoid gaining weight but that will also satisfy my hunger?  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Sean,

First, I would recommend that you have a snack 30-60 minutes before you head to the gym if at all possible. Your body needs fuel for your workout and you will likely have a much better workout if you have a snack beforehand. A good pre-workout snack contains a combination of protein and carbohydrates (e.g. peanut butter on a bagel, a piece of fruit and a yogurt, cheese and crackers).

With a pre-workout snack, you shouldn't feel quite so hungry by the time you get home. Since you go to bed fairly soon after you get home, I would recommend a fairly light meal - some lean meat, chicken or beans with a grain on the side (e.g. rice or pasta) and one or two servings of vegetables and/or fruit. This will give you a good combination of proteins and carbohydrates to help refuel your muscles after exercise, but won't be too heavy for you to eat that late in the evening. You might want to think about making lunch your most substantial meal of the day - that way you still have an opportunity to get in one heavier meal that will fortify your body for your workouts later in the day.

Hope that helps!

Karen
www.getfitwithkaren.com

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