Crunchy, salty, briny – you either love pickles or you hate them. For those who enjoy biting into the crunchy snack there’s good news, because pickles actually have some benefits! They are great on sandwiches, added to salads for extra flavor or dips!
Are Pickles Healthy? Nutrition Facts to Know
Check out everything they have to offer:
- Low calorie – Pickles are low in calories and don’t contain any fat or cholesterol. They are a great way to enhance your food by substituting out the fatty dressings and condiments. They also make for a great snack the next time you are craving something salty and crunchy!
- Probiotics – Pickling is a form of fermentation. During fermentation healthy bacteria forms to help preserve the food. That bacteria is good for your gut! Adding a pickle to your sandwich is an easy probiotic boost.
- Nutrients – Cucumbers are a good source of fiber and pickling them doesn’t eliminate that. They also contain small amounts of iron, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin K.
- Antioxidants – Cooking fruits and vegetables can break down some nutrients. Pickling helps preserve a lot of their antioxidant power.
- High in Electrolytes (reduces cramps) – Salty pickle juice is high in electrolytes and can replenish those used during exercise. That in turn helps reduce cramps.
- Yummy and have a variety of flavors – You can experiment with spices and different fruits/vegetables. Options are quite endless.
Word of caution: The primary drawback to pickles is the amount of sodium that they contain. A single dill pickle spear contains 306 mg. That is about 13 percent of the recommended daily dose of 2,300 mg.