Exercise-associated muscle cramps are common, involuntary spasms and contractions of muscles that usually occur during or following exercise. For over a century, the leading theory on the cause of cramps is the “electrolyte-depletion and dehydration theory”—where electrolytes, such as sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+), and water are lost through sweating. A traditional remedy is pickle juice, which in small amounts, is claimed to reduce cramps within 30 seconds.  A Big Dill? The secret supposedly lies in the...

Vinegar has numerous health benefits.2,3 One claim is that it promotes weight loss through the effects of acetic acid. Studies have been done on rats and mice, and most show an effect on weight loss – although several studies do not find any effects. The most recent review on the subject concludes that, “Based on the data available from several animal studies, and 1 double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial, there is scarce evidence for a beneficial action of...