onimity- thanks, you had many good points. Since I eat 1200 calories by 8pm I don't feel I'm starving myself or putting my body in preservation mode. I'm eating after 8pm currently so I feel I'm easily taking in plenty of calories. Just to clarify, I DO NOT eat fast food. However, I do not do a very good job at denying myself the good stuff (read, the bad stuff) at a restaurant. I know that is my biggest weakness. Chinese food every Tuesday for lunch, Mexican every Friday evening and then whatever looks good, usually Italian, on Saturday and Sunday. My riding isn't enough to make up for what I'm eating.

So that's why I'm asking about glycogen replacement. Does it really take 24 hours to replenish glycogen stores? If I don't eat an evening meal but eat a larger lunch or more snacks will that replenish my glycogen quickly enough and allow me to ride strong on my evening ride?

shawnada - I think I know what you are saying about sugar...you're talking about simple sugar vs. carbs right? Yes we need carbs but we need the complex variety, not the simple sugars, right?

Shoot, I just need someone to order for me at the restaurant!! No will-power here.