Pickles are an absolute must-have in our winter menus. Pickled vegetables are not only tasty, but they also strengthen our immune system, support bacterial flora and digestion, as pickled products are natural probiotics. According to a recent Kantar study, 48% of surveyed Poles associate pickles, such as cabbage or cucumbers, with building the body's immunity, and 36% of respondents say they prepare them themselves.


They are rich in vitamins A, C, E and K. Pickles are low in calories and the lactic acid they contain helps maintain the body's acid-base balance. Of course, Polish tables are dominated by cucumbers and sauerkraut. However, recently, pickled beets, cauliflower florets, mushrooms, radishes, tomatoes, carrots and Brussels sprouts have become increasingly popular. Pickles can be made at home or bought ready, of course choosing those from the best (meaning Polish) vegetables. We should also remember to pay attention to the natural composition of the product we buy.


Pickles are real vitamin bombs. Suffice it to say that a tablespoon of sauerkraut has 2 times more vitamin C than half a lemon. And this is just the beginning of its beneficial effects on immunity. Fermented vegetables contain probiotic bacteria that weaken the pathogens that cause many diseases. Consumption of pickles has a beneficial effect on intestinal microflora. By strengthening the protective barrier, we help the body fight infections.


Pickles are low in calories and contain a lot of fibre, which gives us a sense of satiety. Pickles support bowel function and help fight constipation. A single serving of pickles that we eat on average is no more than a few dozen kcal. Eating pickled vegetables increases the production of digestive enzymes and promotes the secretion of gastric juices that aid digestion. Before a meal, especially a heavy one, it is worth eating some pickled vegetables or drinking gherkin or cabbage juice.


The best thing about pickled vegetables is that not only are they healthy, but also, they taste great. They go with everything, and the culinary possibilities with their use are endless. Pickled vegetables are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. According to nutritionists, vegetables should make up half of each of our meals. During the winter, when the choice of domestic vegetables is less, pickled vegetables will make up for these shortcomings perfectly. Pickled vegetables also have the advantage of low price and general availability. It's very easy to make them yourself, and whoever starts usually pickles vegetables without fail. It's worthwhile!