Like i said, you need those carbs before hand for some energy. The carbs afterwards spike insulin to dirve protein, aminos, creatine, etc... into your muscles.

How do you eat a tuna sandwich before hand? I cant really food RIGHT before or it usually ends up coming up.

And as far as the hot-rox, i wouldnt take them before dinner as it may cause you not to sleep. But experiment around with them. IMO, the best would be to take them right before working out, and especially before cardio.