Are you referring playing on-line or live? Regardless, I don't really like to eat right before I play. I'd rather have something already in my
stomach, say eat an hour or so before. When it comes to on-line, when I know I will be playing allday (multiple tournaments throughout the day)
I like to have small snacks ready or easily accessible. That way I can heat them up or whatnot at break, then direct my focus back to the
task(s) at hand. I will usually wait to eat my next "meal" until after playing.
When it comes to live play it's pretty much the same thing, aside from the fact that if playing a MTT and it goes to a lengthy break (and I'm
absolutely starving, like a Somalian kid starving) then maybe I will eat a small "meal." More to be able to stay focused on the action at my table,
rather than the growl of my gut. Also I will on occasion, take a break from a cash game for an orbit or two to eat a quick meal. I really only do
this on like they last day of my trips to Vegas. Trying to get in as much play as possible.
As for dis/advantages, I'd say it's dependent on the person. One advantage to having small snack ready (pre-made) is that you save yourself
time. When playing online MTT's, time management is crucial, as breaks only last 5 minutes. And come every 55 minutes. So the ability to be
able to eat something and be done with it, before your break ends is a pro. Some players will say to never play on an empty stomach, while
others may say to not eat too much. As to "stay hungry" while playing, and "on" your game, then reward yourself with a good meal after the
session. I personally think that sometimes after I eat a meal, I get tired, or go into a "food coma." But more so, I think getting a good night
sleep before you play is even more key.