1> I would start middle and a week out
2> Anything you want, maybe some spicy thai, a little icecream, steak with creamy garlic sauce, the lists are endless.
3> I have never competed, but have many mates who have, they have all basically used it as a learning experience for furture comps, yes they try to come in their best for each show, but sometimes some stuff you try doesnt work, they dont regret it so much just use as a learning point for what to do next time, then bit by bit they get to know their body and what works amd what doesnt.