Tag: Whole foods for running

Over 70% of runners experience some form of gastrointestinal distress during long-distance races, often linked to concentrated sugar sources like gels. For those looking for a more palatable and stomach-friendly approach, there are numerous delicious and effective options for what to eat during long runs instead of gels. This guide explores whole food alternatives that provide sustained energy without the artificial additives or sugar crashes.

According to sports dietitians, relying on whole, unprocessed foods can provide stable energy and a wider range of nutrients compared to highly processed sports products. This makes knowing what is the best real food to eat during a marathon a valuable skill for any runner looking to optimize performance and feel better on race day.

Over 40% of the population may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from ingredients in traditional sports gels. For many athletes, this prompts the question: **what to take instead of running gels** to power through long runs without stomach issues? The answer often lies in natural, whole food alternatives that can provide sustained energy and better satiety.