A Growing Problem

Athletes with gastrointestinal discomfort during their training or competitions

People suffer from digestive issues

In Europe and Mediterranean countries, 1 in 3 people suffer from digestive issues 1 , and approximately 70-90% of endurance athletes report having experienced gastrointestinal discomfort during their training or competitions 2 3 4. This not only affects performance but also negatively impacts quality of life. At Salssa, after more than 15 years of providing natural nutrition to athletes of all levels and disciplines, we have realised that a healthy diet, based on real food, helps to reduce intestinal ailments and strengthen the digestive system for the future. We create our formulas to tackle these challenges and provide athletes with a natural and effective solution.

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Our Approach

At Salssa, we believe that optimal athletic performance is based on natural nutrition that respects the way the human body has evolved to recognise, digest, and absorb the nutrients it is accustomed to. Our strategy focuses on using natural ingredients, crushed in their original proportion, that are nutrient-rich and scientifically selected to support both the digestive system and the communication between the gut and the brain 5 6 7.

The bidirectional connection of the gut-brain axis is crucial for achieving maximum performance. Research by experts, such as Dr Emeran Mayer, has shown that a healthy digestive system directly influences cognitive function, stress management, and overall well-being. Therefore, at Salssa, we not only aim to optimise nutrient absorption but also enhance the production of neurotransmitters that improve concentration, reduce stress, and promote comprehensive recovery.

Our products focus on:

  • Multiple absorption carbohydrates: We combine simple and complex sugars to ensure sustained energy release and digestive stability.
  • High-quality proteins: We use easily digestible plant proteins that support muscle recovery and benefit gut microbiota.
  • Electrolytes and natural salts: We ensure optimal hydration and the necessary mineral balance for performance.
  • Natural nitrates: They promote the production of nitric oxide, improving circulation and reducing fatigue.
  • Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories: They protect cells from oxidative stress and promote faster recovery.

Each formula is designed to meet the specific demands of each sporting discipline, ensuring that each nutrient acts in synergy to support digestive health while enhancing the gut-brain connection, allowing athletes to perform at their best sustainably.
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Multiple Absorption Carbohydrates

To maintain energy throughout the exercise, we use fast, medium, and slow-absorbing carbohydrates, achieving a sustained release of energy. While simple sugars provide an immediate boost, other complex carbohydrates, such as those found in bananas and sweet potatoes, extend the energy supply, avoiding glucose spikes and preventing fatigue. This combination balances energy performance and digestive stability 8 9.

The steadily released glycogen, along with the naturally present water and its salts in our pouches, will help you maintain not only your energy but also an appropriate level of hydration to absorb all the glycogen it offers you.
Type of Absorption Ingredients Approximate GI
Rapid (High GI) Dates, Banana (very ripe) >70
Medium (Medium GI) Mango, Pear, Pomegranate juice, Beetroot 56-69
Slow (Low GI) Apple, Sweet Potato, Plum, Strawberry, Lemon Juice <55
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High-Quality Proteins

Proteins are essential for muscle recovery, and for repairing those small tears at the muscle level that occur during training and competitions 10. We include plant-based proteins, such as faba bean protein, a protein that contains all the amino acids the human body needs, complete, and which not only supports muscle growth and repair but is also easy to digest 11. This protein offers comprehensive support for post-exercise recovery and the care of your gut microbiota.
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Electrolytes for Hydration and Mineral Balance

Did you know that if you lose 1 kg through dehydration and weigh 60 kg, you are losing 1% of your body weight? And did you know that this 1% body weight loss will result in a 10% loss in muscular work capacity? 12.

Sodium is the mineral most involved in the hydration and rehydration of athletes. Furthermore, it is the mineral we excrete the most through sweat compared to any other. Therefore, ensuring a good intake of sodium will help us to keep all our tissues and organs well hydrated and functional to perform at the highest level 13.

That's why we use sea salt to provide an adequate supply of sodium that covers all your sports requirements. We help you achieve good hydration and avoid a drop in performance.
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Nitrates for Circulation and Performance

Nitrates, found in ingredients like beetroot or pomegranate, support the production of nitric oxide, which improves blood flow and reduces muscle fatigue 14. This is particularly beneficial in long-duration training sessions or competitions, where good circulation is key to delivering oxygen to the muscles and improving energy efficiency. The incorporation of nitrates helps maintain consistent energy and sustained performance 15.

And Salssa only uses these natural crushed foods.
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Antioxidants and Anti-inflammatories

Intense exercise generates oxidative stress, which can damage cells and cause inflammation. The natural antioxidants in Salssa, sourced from vegetables such as olive oil, pomegranate 16 and blackberries, neutralise free radicals and protect cells. Additionally, our ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties such as ginger 17 help reduce muscle damage and promote faster recovery, allowing athletes to train without compromising their long-term health.

Although the human body is capable of creating its own antioxidants to balance the oxidative effects of exercise, there are times (due to intensity, duration, climate, or stress) when this capacity is exceeded, and providing them externally is the only way to offset oxidative stress. At Salssa, we choose to do it naturally.
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