Even if they’re not accompanied by a cough, sore throats can be a pickle for people struggling to get through flu and cold season. For some, it’s simply a matter of figuring out what over-the-counter potion will soothe the tickle or mask the pain.

And, for many this season just opening a jar of pickles and downing the juice has been all the elixir they need for feeling better.

Pickle juice? For doubters, be it known that Cleveland Clinic even supports the use of pickle juice, as it has antioxidants that fight infection, along with probiotics and electrolytes for your gut health and quick recovery. For your throat, the salt and vinegar in it helps “moisten your throat, reduce inflammation and fight bacteria, potentially easing the discomfort” of the pain and scratchy feeling, Su-Nui Escobar, a registered dietitian in Miami told Today.

So how does pickle juice work? According to Dr. Linda Yancey, infectious disease specialist at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, pickle juice is more concentrated than plain water, and it will help draw the water out of the tissues in your throat, and reduce swelling and pain. If you don’t have any pickles on hand, don’t worry: A spoonful of honey or simply gargling salt water can help, too.

SOURCE:

TODAY January 15, 2024