Are you sick of energy gels?

There are so many different energy gels on the market. It's difficult to decide which one to buy because they all have similar nutrition value. They contain between 20 - 25 grams of carbohydrates with 5 - 10 grams of that being simple sugars. They also contain Sodium which serves a vital role of maintaining normal blood pressure, control fluid balance and allow adequate nerve functioning. Another ingredient is Potassium. Potassium is important for skeletal and cardiac muscle contraction. Arguably, it doesn't really matter what product you use. In fact, you don't even need to use an energy gel. Take a look at these 3 alternatives.

1. Bananas

Britain's most popular grocery. A banana contains 23g of carbohydrates with 12 grams of that being sugar, a very similar balance to energy gels. They are rebound for their high potassium levels (358mg) and contain 1mg of sodium. They really are the best substitute to energy gels.
You can't expect to compete in a gruelling endurance race with a bunch of bananas hanging from your bum bag so here's what you are going to do to combat the issue. Grab a resealable plastic bag, the type you would use to store food in the fridge. Mash up a banana and place it within the resealable bag. Whilst running, you can open a small corner and squeeze out the banana when you need it. It's not the most appealing way to eat a banana but it's resourceful.

2. Honey

Unlike the for mentioned banana, honey is 82g of pure sugar per 100 grams so this is probably best save as a last energy kick a few miles from the finish line. It doesn't add up to bananas when it comes to potassium but it containers 4mg of sodium for better water retention.
Honey is messy, sticky and hard to wash off so be warned, if it explodes it will be an uncomfortable running experience. It's best to buy honey in a plastic bottle that you can squeeze out at will. No glass jar, no spoon and no trouble!

3. Jaffa Cakes

I remember this favourite child hood treat as being Manchester United's half time snack. Per 100 grams, Jaffa Cakes offer a whopping 380 calories worth of energy. It should be pointed out that this is not ideal for people trying to lose weight! With 70.8 grams of carbohydrate with 52.5 grams of that coming from sugar, this snack will offer a faster releasing energy source than standard energy gels. Jaffa Cakes also offers 24 grams of salt which is much needed during a gruelling marathon.
To consume Jaffa Cakes during a race, place them in a small plastic bag within your side pocket. You may wish to brake them into pieces so that you don't have to overdo the chewing!