Q:

Help Recover During Long Runs

Obviously, longer runs require longer recovery. Besides using something like gels and drinking water when running, is there anything else I can do to help my body from being depleated as much during long runs so I can recover faster afterwards?

A:

When I was doing my distance training I found a litre of chocolate milk was a great cheap recovery drink.  Lots of carbs, protein, tasty, and available everywhere. 
My friends find it amusing that every time an article is published suggesting this, they send me links, which I alas do not store.  
But soon (15-30 minutes) after your long run is finished, have some carbs and protein.  Chocolate Milk is just an easy thing to handle at that point. 

A:

The core aspects are 

as you have mentioned, replenishment of water, salts and carbohydrates - using gels, drinks etc
training your body to cope with longer distances improves your recovery time.

The training piece is the aspect you can improve over time, so concentrate on that.

