Pickle Health Benefits

 The nutritional value of pickles varies depending on their type and size. For example, a whole dill pickle can have about:

• 20% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin K, which helps your blood clot and keeps your bones strong
• 6% of the calcium adults need for strong bones and teeth and healthy nerves
• 2% of your daily requirement of potassium, which helps your nerves work right
• 3%-4% of your daily requirement of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects your cells from damage
• 1% of the daily value of vitamin A, important for your vision, immune system, and a healthy pregnancy.

Pickles also contain phosphorus and folate. Cucumber pickles are a great source of the antioxidant beta-carotene. Beta-carotene has been linked to a lower risk of several chronic conditions, including age-related macular degeneration and type 2 diabetes.

If you prefer a smaller serving of pickles, 1/2 cup of sliced sweet bread and butter pickles has:

• More than 3% of your daily value of vitamin A
• About 1/3 of your daily requirement of vitamin K
• About 4% of the calcium for the day
• About 2% of your daily requirement of potassium