Ever pulled a muscle mid-workout and thought, “I’d do anything to make this stop”? Well, what if the answer wasn’t in your medicine cabinet, but in your fridge? That’s right, pickle juice is having a moment, and it’s not just for burgers and biltong platters anymore.
Once the unsung hero of the pantry, pickle juice is now being hailed as a muscle-soothing elixir by athletes and weekend warriors alike. According to Healthline, this briny remedy has shown potential in relieving muscle cramps faster than water or sports drinks.
A 2010 study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise found that pickle juice reduced cramp duration by nearly 45% compared to no treatment. Researchers believe the reason for this is that vinegar in pickle juice may trigger a reflex in the nervous system that stops cramping in its tracks, according to the mentioned study.
It’s not just a Western fad; locally, many Comrades Marathon runners and trail enthusiasts swear by a quick pickle juice shot to keep the cramps at bay. With South Africa’s active outdoor lifestyle, from beach runs to berg hikes, this salty secret is becoming a gym bag staple.
However, before you go chugging a jar of Mrs. Ball’s pickles, a word of caution: the sodium levels are no joke. One shot might help, but too much could push your blood pressure off the charts, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The clinic recommends around 60ml per dose—just enough to work without overwhelming your system.
So, whether you’re training for a race or just want to prevent your calves from turning into rocks after a long day, don’t be too quick to toss the pickle brine. Your muscles might thank you—and you’ll never look at a gherkin jar the same way again.
Also see: What not to eat if you want a happy, healthy liver
