It's pretty hard to make my homemade energy gel look good so I won't bother posting a pic.

Actually, probably best I don't as it looks something like sump oil.... But it works for me! I've trained & raced 2 (edit:make that 3) IM on this, including both runs on this gel, water & not much else with no gut issues.

1 cup rice malt syrup
1/2 cup barley malt syrup
Instant coffee - about 2 tablespoons
Salt
Gently heat the syrups & stir together. Dissolve instant coffee in a small amount of warm water. Add to syrups with salt to taste. I work on the principle that when I've got the taste right, I've got the mix about right. It hasn't failed me yet..

From those who are interested in the carbo breakdown, try here:

http://www.triedtastedserved.com/...brown-rice-syrup.php
http://www.triedtastedserved.com/...arley-malt-syrup.php