FAQs
Drinking pickle juice might sound gross, but there are several reasons to consider it. It is hydrating and may help with muscle cramps, blood sugar, and gut health, among other benefits. Athletes have been sipping this briny beverage for years. Experts didn't know why pickle juice was good to drink after exercising.
Why does pickle juice help heartburn? ›
Many theories suggest that pickle juice is a concentrated source of Lactobacillus, a healthy probiotic bacteria found in your gut microbiome and on the skin of cucumbers. Consuming pickle juice is thought to help replenish the existing good bacteria in your gut, soothing acid reflux up the esophagus.
How fast does pickle juice work? ›
The same set of researchers also did a test on pickle juice for cramps earlier in 2010. They found that it did work to shorten cramp duration. On average, it relieved cramps in about 1.5 minutes, and 45 percent faster than when nothing was taken after exercise.
Why does pickle juice help nausea? ›
Pickles, especially in the form of pickle juice, are rich in electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. This electrolyte balance can play a crucial role in relieving nausea caused by dehydration or imbalances in bodily fluids. A sip of pickle juice might just be the pick-me-up your body needs.
Does pickle juice clean your gut? ›
Gut Health
Pickle juice can contain large amounts of lactobacillus, one of several healthy gut bacteria. This bacterium is one of many probiotics, which are beneficial to your overall health. However, most commercially available pickle juice has been pasteurized, meaning the bacteria it once contained are now inactive.
Is it safe to drink pickle juice everyday? ›
It's safe to enjoy a small cup of pickle juice, but make sure that you do not exceed your daily value of sodium. People with high blood pressure, gout, and heart, liver, or kidney disease might need to avoid pickle juice. Consult a healthcare provider if you are unsure whether pickle juice is safe for you.
Which is better, pickle juice or Gatorade? ›
Sports drinks might provide better support in preventing muscle cramps, because they typically contain less sodium than pickle juice, plus additional electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium and a much higher content of water.
Can you drink pickle juice straight from the jar? ›
Of course, some folks even drink pickle and sauerkraut juice straight as a tonic! We've even heard of athletes who drink pickle juice as a way to replenish the salt after their workouts.
Why do I feel better after drinking pickle juice? ›
Pickle juice contains sodium, magnesium and potassium which are found in an abundance within high mineral sea salt. These minerals are electrolytes, minerals that carry an electrical charge within the body and they are responsible for directing water to the areas in your body that need it most.
Is pickle juice a laxative? ›
Drinking pickle juice is said to help with stomach aches, yeast infections, diarrhea, constipation, and menstrual cramps.
The juice is also good for getting rid of muscle cramps as it hydrates the body. However, one should avoid drinking it on an empty stomach as it is acidic in nature. Fermented foods are great for gut health as they improve the good bacteria and flora in the gut.
Why does my stomach hurt after drinking pickle juice? ›
Raised blood pressure: Water retention from eating large amounts of salt can increase blood pressure. Indigestion: Drinking too much pickle juice can lead to gas, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Cramping: Some doctors worry that drinking pickle juice may actually cause electrolyte imbalances and worsen cramping.
Is pickle juice from the jar good for you? ›
“Pickle juice contains electrolytes in the form of a lot of sodium and some potassium and magnesium. That's why you can use it as a natural electrolyte,” says Skoda. “It can help to rehydrate after exercise.” To get the most benefit, Skoda says to choose a vinegar-based pickle without yellow dye and preservatives.
Is pickle juice better for you than Gatorade? ›
Sports drinks might provide better support in preventing muscle cramps, because they typically contain less sodium than pickle juice, plus additional electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium and a much higher content of water.
Are pickles good for your liver? ›
Eating too much sodium can cause your kidneys and liver to work harder. Also, the high blood pressure that often follows diets high in sodium puts even more stress on these organs. As a result, eating too many pickles may be risky for anyone with liver disease or kidney conditions.
What health benefits do pickles have? ›
Czerwony said pickles generally offer fiber, antioxidants as well as vitamins to support eye and heart health. Fermented pickles, specifically, are a good source of probiotics, which are helpful for gut health.