Swimming has many benefits.  It eases arthritic pain, helps with constipation, and is a great form of exercise.  But the best part about a regular swim program is the friendships you form with fellow swimmers.  Typically, they’re in it for their health. And they may gather at the far end of the pool to talk about weight loss, nutrition, and other health related topics.  The other day, a fellow swimmer told me that she always has a few sips of pickle juice after a swim.  That was a new one for me, as a dietitian.  As a result, I searched the internet, and found that it is, indeed, recommended  as a way to prevent leg cramps and dehydration. It also contains probiotics that keep your gut bacteria in good balance.   So, here’s to your health with pickle juice. 

There are different types of pickles-sweet and dill. It seems that dill juice is best for enjoying the above benefits.  But watch out!  It  is also loaded with sodium.  So you don’t want to slosh down a whole glassful.  The recommended dosage is 3 oz—the size of a shot glass.

Many adults suffer from high blood pressure, and must control their sodium intake. In our house, we use salt sparingly.  I never cook with salt, whether it be mashed potatoes, pork chops, or homemade soup.  If something needs a little salt, we can add to taste.  After awhile, you get used to a reduced salt intake.  In fact, there are fast food restaurants we avoid because their products taste of nothing but salt.  Especially some of the seafood places.

One caveat:  It’s recommended that adults  have no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day.  And if your doctor has you on a low sodium diet, you may only be allowed 1,000 mg. a day.  Since 3  ounces of  dill  pickle juice contains 900 mg, it could not be right for you. But if you’re on a regular diet, pickle juice may be good for your health.