Seeking advise on clean real-food nutrition for training & race

Hi everyone,

I’m 36M, a complete beginner in all three triathlon disciplines, currently training for my first-ever 70.3 triathlon race on 1st June 2025.

For the past 10 months, I’ve been following an organic, whole-food, gluten-free, plant-based diet (with raw honey) focused on longevity. My diet is high-fiber, high-healthy-fat, and protein-rich, with no added sugars or ultra-processed foods. It includes plenty of nuts, seeds, fruits, veggies, algae, and similar whole foods. I also practice 2MAD (2 meals a day) with a 17-hour fasting window.

As I get deeper into training and plan for race day, I’ve noticed that most popular nutrition options—like gels and bars—are ultra-processed and packed with sugar, which doesn’t fit my dietary philosophy.

I’d love advice on: 1. Understanding nutritional needs for training and race day: What should I prioritize in terms of carbs, electrolytes, hydration, protein, etc., and how much for both training and racing? 2. Real-food alternatives to meet these needs: Are there recipes, ideas, or strategies for natural, portable, and effective race-day and training nutrition?

My goal is to stay consistent with my clean, whole-food approach while ensuring I meet all my energy, performance, and recovery needs. Any guidance, tips, or resources would be greatly appreciated!