Originally Posted by
beezaur
The only real problem is that it would taste like guano.
fify
It's for my wife, who doesn't have the cast-iron stomach I do. We're looking for ways that she can take in sufficient calories and not have an upset stomach.
pb&j sandwich? pb&honey is good too. banana? trail mix?
Gels are a convenient source of energy, and some have other stuff that can be helpful. If I am on a longer, unsupported ride, I carry them for when my sports drink runs out, and I've already eaten something. I could also carry sports drink mix, but some variety is nice.
I think people have made homemade gels using maltodextrin as the primary ingredient, with some flavoring and water.
For most of your rides, a sports drink is likely superior not only because of the nutrition, but because the flavor encourages you to drink the fluid.