If you are riding for performance then you want to be consuming 80g+ of carbs per hour or 250+ calories. Easiest way is via energy drinks, gels, chews and bars. I find it quite hard consuming much solid food if I'm riding at tempo. I find electrolytes important too, especially in hot weather. But they come with my energy drinks. I don't bother with just water. Energy drinks and gels can be natural too, not all are full of chemicals. Just have to research brands that are available where you live. I like Veloforte, but they only sell in the UK. Bananas are good too! Just a bit bulky to carry around.