Pickles are a fermented food with a lot of health benefits. Besides being low in calories. They are probiotic rich which can help improve digestion and sooth minor stomach issues. Studies also suggest they can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, treat cavities and gingivitis, manage diabetes, prevent and treat allergies, reduce urinary tract infections, and lower the risk of some cancers including colon cancer.
Farmers markets are finally in full swing in South Florida and one of the things I am always on the look out for to pep up my lunch are pickled anything. I want the fresh stuff, not what you buy on the supermarket shelves. I was recently at the Parkland Farmers Market when I encountered Doctor Pickle. They are so popular they actually had two tents set up back to back, They didn't offer samples but I decided to try them anyway. They had a selection of pickled eggs, olives, red cabbage, sauerkraut, jalapenos, and several flavor of pickles including half sour. I purchased a sweet pickle and a Mediterranean blend of pickled peppers, carrots, and cauliflower. The sweet pickle was okay but missing something for me and the Mediterranean blend was nice for an antipasto salad. It was a little expensive for the size of the container. I am still on the hunt for that perfect pickle and open to any suggestions. read more