How Do You Fuel?

One of my biggest struggles as a runner is fueling for long runs. I have had a history of fatigue, GI issues, and electrolyte imbalance after long runs (10+ miles). One of the ways that I have sort of dealt with the problem is making sure I eat before the run. I haven't done a long run in awhile, but they're quickly approaching so I know I need to really nail down a routine that works for me. My coach, Brian, said that with more experience the fueling/fatigue thing will start to diminish, so hopefully with a longer training cycle than I had for my two half marathons the past winter things will go more smoothly. My most recent combination was: toasted english muffin with a thin layer of pb about 1 1/2 hours before the event along with some H2O. I also had a NUUN tablet the night before right before bed. I made sure to drink water before the race, but I ended up being pretty nervous when I got there that I had a few bathroom stops before the race started. I am pretty sure I was dehydrated due to the bathroom stops from the get go. I of course didn't know that at the time. I took a handheld water bottle that was filled with NUUN and water. That was the only drink I had the whole race, except for the last water station. As for fuel, I had a Hammer gel every 40 minutes, so I had 3 total throughout the race. I don't think the fuel was the issue. I think it was the water/electrolyte imbalance. I've read articles about how people who only drink electrolytes during a race combined with fuel can result in GI issues. I guess what I need to hear is what do you do during races as far as fueling goes? Do you combine water and sports drink stations with your own handheld? Do you calm your nerves so that you don't need to use the restroom multiple times BEFORE the race even starts? Do you have a secret fuel that works wonders for people who tend to have GI issues? I NEED to hear your routines and practices. Here in the next 6 weeks, I'll need to start fueling again due to long runs showing up on the schedule, but until then I'd like to get a plan in place that I know will work for me! Drop a comment below and let me know products, or routines that have worked for you!

Picture of my flat runner from Cowtown half marathon 2018