Training & Nutrition - Eating after late night races

I’ve been reading a lot on this forum how one shouldn’t eat 3 hours before bed. I participate in 2 late night races a week in which I don’t get home until after midnight. I usually eat something when I get home and get to bed 15 minutes after. Is this a good thing to be doing? Is one thing better to eat this late than another? What is the reason for not eating 3 hours before bed anyways? Thanks.

I believe that what you are asking about is geared towards people trying to lose weight and tend to eat too much late at night when the metabolism slows down - therefore the calories are more likely to be converted to fat. For the most part, the body is not digesting food and we don't need extra energy to sleep.

It sounds like you have a different case. If you are racing at night, your body needs to be replenished or your performance is likely to suffer next time. Just think of properly rehydrating and restoring your body as you would after a race at any other time of day. Of course, it is better to refuel quickly after your race while your metabolism is screaming rather than waiting until you get home (unless you are close by). Just don't go home and eat a dozen donuts and 3 McDOnalds Big Macs then go to sleep. Eat to replace what you burned - healthy, nutritious foods.

Track racing keeps me out way past my bedtime one night a week. When I get home, I knock back of shot of Knob Creek and snack on some peanut butter crackers. Nerves are soothed, tummy is satisfied. Shower and then to bed with no ill effects.

I have eaten a bowl of cereal before bed for just about as long as I remember and have stayed lean and mean with no digestion problems. Plus it helps me sleep b/c my stomach is full. I agree with the post up above; I think that the "don't eat before bed" claims are for people on diets...

Thanks for all the input. I'll be sure to eat a big bowl of cereal when i get home tonight.

I would do cereal, but the milk tends to wake my bladder up in the middle of the night.