Energy gels, foods during long distance running

[lhazelton0]

I'm T1, hybrid closed loop user currently training for a half marathon. Diabetes dietitian has given me advise about using a gel as quick acting carbs during running when my levels start to drop below 7 but wasn't able to recommend any particular type. I had a go with a hi5 gel recently but found it too sticky and hard to actually consume whilst running. Dextro tablets were too drying and jelly babies although ok, not so easy to eat a large number of...does anyone have any tried and tested solutions at all? I've heard that Sports in Science are more palatable? I do aim to start exercise with a level above ten but inevitably do drop so need to make sure I can get carbs on board while I continue to exercise.
Thanks so much in advance.

 

[dannybgoode]

I've tried all sorts of energy gels and they nicest I've had by far are the Decathlon energy chews. They're a bit like a giant fruit pastel, taste amazing and really get me going on a run.

They do some slightly slower acting carb ones as well in the form of date bars which are very nice too.

 

[helli]

When exercising, I prefer to try to maintain my levels by adding diluted juice to my water bottle to sip all the time.
I find treating lows (or upcoming lows) with fast acting carbs leads to more “saw tooth” BG profile - BG heading low, treat, BG heading too high, exercise reduces BG too much, treat, BG heading too high , …

 

[counsellorneil]

As you're on a hybrid closed loop, is there any way you can set up a profile for when you run, so basal and bolus are lowered according to your bodies needs? I'm wondering if you might get by by running a half marathon without eating anything? I find gels awful. These I enjoy https://veloforte.com/collections/hyrox-nutrition/products/fresco. Another smaller UK company that sell various food for runners is https://www.chiacharge.co.uk/

Hope you find something you like. Depending on where you live the National Running Show at the Birmingham NEC https://nationalrunningshow.com/ might be worth attending, as various companies tout their wares amoungst which are food companies, who give out freebies, so you can try before you buy. If you do want to go, don't buy a ticket, I have a spare you can have.