I'm consistently an undereater on the bike. I might have part of an energy bar, a banana, a couple of Clif blocs or a few cookies every 20-25 miles but I otherwise don't each much. For rides under 2 hours, I usually don't have anything at all. For longer rides (century or more), I'll try to nibble a bit more and eat a more substantial lunch, but I don't think I come close to replacing my calorie expenditure. My appetite off the bike, however, is voracious. I call it "feeding the beast." If my blood sugar takes a dive, I barely recognize myself, I get so cranky. I keep something in my purse at all times just in case--under orders from my boyfriend.

I did find that my post-ride appetite is easier to control when I consistently drink chocolate milk immediately after a ride. I tend to agree that the carb/protein combination helps keep hunger in check and aids in recovery.

One thing I've consistently read is that cyclists sometimes overdo it with energy drinks--on and off the bike. So, if you're having trouble losing or maintaining weight, you might take a close look at how much you're drinking and whether water is sufficient for your shorter/easier rides.