Fueling for a Long Run

Fueling is the #1 thing about running a long race that makes me nervous. I'm not one of those that experiences the "runner's flu," or even those other stomach issues mid or post-race. I do, however, experience some crazy bad headaches. Like- almost migraine status headaches- always following long runs.

I think now is a fantastic time to mention that I do occasionally suffer from migraines, but am currently on medication that controls them- and I've been migraine free for several years, and probably average about 1 (maybe) a year. Thank goodness!

Now, for shorter runs (8 miles and under) my headaches are typically nonexistent. But anything over 8, and I can expect to suffer from a pretty decent headache for most of the day. I have found that my GU Chomps, (Cranberry Apple is my go-to flavor because it isn't too sweet) have helped alot, especially if I eat them around mile 8. I don't ever have a taste for anything too sugary mid-run and prefer to keep my running snacks fairly neutral.

A friend told me about the Honey Stingers, so I picked some up last night after bootcamp to try on our long run this weekend! I got the pink lemonade flavor.

 

 Aaron stumbled across the Nuun tablets at this year's Austin Marathon, and we have been hooked ever since. We love them during a bike ride- and Aaron drinks them after a run. I'm more of a water and/or chocolate milk kind of girl post-run.Watermelon is my favorite. They have electrolytes and don't have a ton of extra sugar. And because I think my headaches might be due to a sodium deficiency, which is totally probable- I might start hydrating with Nuun tablets before, during and after my longer runs! They have so many different flavors to choose from- and they even have one that supports breast cancer awareness: 

 What are your go-to methods for hydrating and fueling during a long run? I'd love to know!