Thanks for the input. The only thing you wrote that I feel somewhat knowledgeable on is the BCAAs during workout. Awhile back, someone posted some links to studies that seem to suggest that if you have a high protein diet (for example, 1.25g of Protein per lbs. of bodyweight) than you're likely to be saturated with BCAAs, so that the supplement won't have an effect. I'll see if I can dig them up sometime in the next couple days.

I typically will have some protein a few hours before my workout, carbs right before, and protein again immediately afterwards. I thought protein just prior to a workout might make me feel bloated or a little lethargic. I may have to try it and see.

Cool, thanks for the tip. I also do carbs 60-90 minutes before the workout. Honestly, though, I'm shoving food in my mouth all day anyway.

that's been popping up a lot lately, I'll give it a shot but it goes against what I've previously thought...

used to believe that protein/food pre-workout is counter intuitive because your blood goes into your stomach to help digest that food while you're lifting, whereas normally it would rather go to your muscles-- could be broscience but I'll try 20g hydrolyzed protein pre-workout with 40g carbs pre as well and report back any significant strength gains or overall better workouts!

I eagerly await the results of your n=1 study.

I dont believe that you need protein preworkout. But dextrose post workout does help shuttle nutrients, and the insulin spike is anabolic. If you workout fasted, then do not spike your insulin until at least an hour post workout for a variety of reasons, but largely the release of growth hormone GH.

trying to manipulate growth hormone levels through meal timing is pointless.

http://broscience.com/broscience-com-approved-articles/561-growth-hormone-great-expectations.html

Hi, I just recently posted an article on my website about protein. I DEFINITELY consume some source of protein before a workout, and immediately after (usually a scoop of whey just because it's easy). The article is a look at the peer-reviewed literature as far as benefits and timing of intake, so I hope it helps. If you'd like to read the article, check it out here:

http://ironcookclean.com/protein-in-your-diet-how-much-is-too-much-how-much-is-enough-where-should-it-come-from-metabolism-and-macronutrients-part-3/

Overall, there is a lot of misinformation circulating the fitness community about protein, so it can be a difficult topic. Ultimately, it's worth knowing what the evidence supports, but it also matters most what you tolerate well and respond to individually. I do great taking protein preworkout (along with some carbs), but if it bothers your stomach or makes you nauseous to eat too soon before you lift, I'd extend it out a bit and give it more time. If anyone does check out the article, let me know what you think (and please friend me on MFP!). Thanks!