To tell you the truth, there are too many theories out there about eating before bed.
(1)Example: 'drinking a protein shake before bed will increase (up) Nitrogen balance into a positive.'
(2)Example: 'drinking a protein shake or eating before bed will decrease fat burning.'
Now, personally, I have tried both of the above methods and, as it seems, I came up with my own theory:
1- 1 1/2 hours before going to bed, have a protein shake that consists of the following proteins: CASEINATE,WHEY,EGG,SOY,MILK
(you can use egg whites, but as for the milk, I'd recommend getting milk protein--due to the fact that it has no carbs, unlike skim milk)
This has worked very marvelously for me. It also seemed to do wonders as far as muscle loss went.