WHILE some health hacks are probably too good - or too bizarre - to be true, one has just received the tick of approval from a doctor.
According to NHS GP Dr Sooj, taking a swig of pickle juice can stop a muscle cramp in its tracks.
Athletes have sworn by the hack for many years, and now the TikTok community is abuzz about it, after the doc posted the advice in a video to his 250,000 followers.
"It is thought drinking two to three ounces [60-85ml] of pickle juice for menstrual cramps can help because it has a high electrolyte content," Dr Sooj said, reacting to a viral video in which a woman claimed that the bizarre hack could alleviate period cramps.
"[Electrolytes] can help to ease muscle cramps and the vinegar may also trigger a reflex that promotes muscle relaxation and reduces pain", he explained.
A 2020 study in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found pickle juice to be one of the most effective foods for treating muscle cramps, with its high salt content providing a key electrolyte to the body.
The briny liquid is also packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and E.
TikTok users who had tried the hack commented on Dr Sooj's video, with some saying it really did help with their cramps.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 15 Aug 25
To see the full newsletter, see the embedded issue below or CLICK HERE to download Pharmacy Daily from 15 Aug 25
