When Should I Stop Eating at Night?

Nutrient timing in general has been a hot topic in health and nutrition forums for years. Does it matter when you eat? Does it matter how much? One of the big questions out there is if and when should I stop eating at night. We hear about the importance of consuming casein protein sources before bed from one person, then to not eat at all from the next. So what is the deal? When should I stop eating at night?

The old thinking is that consuming calories before bed time (right when your body is about to shut-down for the evening) will result in an increase of fat stores. This thinking is not wrong and backed by scientific evidence. However, this rule of thumb is also for people who are not physically active or trying to build muscle. For those trying to build muscle, downing a 40g dose of casein protein has showed a 20% increase in amino acid circulation during a full 8 hours of sleep! This means that if you are trying to build muscle, eating casein before bed will supply your muscles with the amino acids it needs for muscle growth and recovery.

So What's the Verdict?

• If you are not trying to pack on some muscle or do not work out at all, eating before night will more than likely contribute to excess fat gain.
• If you are working out 5-6 days per week, actively playing sports and trying to gain muscle, aim to eat 40g of casein protein before bed (in supplement form or cottage cheese).

Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Eating At Night

• Emotional eating at night
• Habitual eating at night in front of the TV
• Eating sugars or carbohydrates at night

Follow these basic rules and your night time eating habits won't destroy your gains or your waistline.