Why I Ditched the Wrappers and Started Making My Own Gels
I’m no stranger to making my own energy gels at home. I was making Chia Energy Gels back in 2017! They were okay, and if I had taken the time to develop them further, they would have been even better. However, as a busy working mum, I’m aware that decision fatigue is a real thing. Sometimes it’s just easy to pay for something like running fuel to make your life easier.
The Great Gel Odyssey: From Warehouse Fire to Home Kitchen
Let’s talk fuel. For a long time, my running life revolved around Huck Nutrition. They were my go-to, the reliable source of the sticky gold that powered my long runs. Then, disaster struck (literally, a warehouse fire!), and my supply chain evaporated. This sent me into two years of “What-the-heck-do-I-eat?” fuel testing.
I moved to tried-and-true names like Clif gels and chews, which were fine, but felt like a temporary fix. I even dabbled heavily in the carb-electrolyte drink mixes like Tailwind and Trail Brew. And don’t get me wrong, those have their place—hydration and carbs are a necessity. But sometimes, when you’re 20km deep into a run, you don’t want a sloshing bottle; you just want one small, mighty hit of pure, unadulterated energy.
I needed something small that delivered a big punch.
🔬 The Science That Saved My Legs (And My Research)
I decided to stop guessing and start researching. I knew the secret sauce for optimal endurance fuel wasn’t just any sugar; it was the combination of dextrose and fructose. This 1:0.8 or similar ratio is critical because it allows your body to absorb more carbohydrates per hour than glucose alone, bypassing transport limits and giving you the most efficient energy delivery possible.
That’s where my long-lost energy gel spark finally reignited. My research led me straight to an exciting name: Vert Nutrition.
🎉 Three Reasons Vert Nutrition is a Big Win
Vert Nutrition didn’t just tick my science-based energy box; they blew the lid off the entire process. Here are the three reasons I’m completely converted:
1. The Brains: Perfect Dextrose-to-Fructose Ratio
This is non-negotiable for serious runners, and Vert nailed it. They give you the researched, proven combination that allows your body to efficiently absorb maximum carbs. It truly feels like a powerful, immediate energy source—less sluggishness and more sustained go.
2. The Customisation: Your Gel, Your Way
I love a good thick gel, but maybe you prefer yours slightly more liquid? Vert’s make-at-home kit gives you complete control over consistency! You simply add the water and mix until you hit your sweet spot. It’s like having a personal chef for your running fuel. This level of customisation ensures the gel is palatable and easy to swallow, even when your heart rate is maxed out.
3. The Earth: Reusable, Refillable, Revolutionary
Let’s be honest, those little sticky gel wrappers scattered on the trails are the runner’s equivalent of littering. It’s the worst. Vert’s system uses reusable containers. You fill them up at home, you consume the energy on the run, and you bring the empty container back home to clean and refill. Less mess for the environment and fewer sticky pockets for me? That’s a massive, guilt-free win in my book!
🇦🇺 Added Bonus: Supporting Smart Aussie Innovation
To top it all off, I’m supporting a clever Australian company. It’s always fantastic to see local businesses delivering top-tier, innovative products that solve real-world problems for athletes.
The verdict? After two years of searching, my fuel strategy is finally settled. Vert Nutrition offers the ultimate trifecta: Scientifically superior fuel, eco-friendly packaging, and total control over consistency. If you’re tired of the gel wrapper guilt and ready for a genuinely high-performance, customisable fuel source, make the switch!