I went on a serious hike today with some very fit people. They mentioned the use of pickle juice and mustard as a very quick way to help restore one's electrolytes (in addition to water) on the trail. (Yes, I know -- the best bet is to never get dehydrated or allow one's electrolyte levels to go astray to begin with.)

They said they keep mustard packets in their packs and come to think of it, I have seen empty packets on the trail. Has anyone else heard of using pickle juice and mustard in this fashion?

We sometimes take mustard and mayo to augment our salami, cheese and crackers for lunch. But I doubt you'll ever see our packets as trash on the trail. We're pretty OCD about LNT.

I've read they are excellent at reducing cramping, undoubtedly the vinegar content. I still like the powdered Gatorade/lemonade/tea mix we make and use on the trail, but we've only used the packets like Balzacom does. If you see packets on the trail, it's maybe the mindset I see from bike racers who throw wrappers and water bottles indiscriminately as they ride. My rural town on the NY/VT border hosted a large race, until us locals got sick of the pig attitudes and booted the whole mess elsewhere. I may start considering bringing some pickles for trail lunches. If they help and I do like them.....

I have heard of pickle juice but not mustard packets. Pickle juice has salt in it (electrolytes) but not so much for mustard. Mustard has vinegar, but I am not sure what role it plays during strenuous activity.

Mustard is also very high in sodium...

http://blog.trainerroad.com/pickle-juice-stop-cramps/
Here's an interesting read and why I said it was the vinegar.

Thanks much...

That is interesting. I'll have to try it. Right now I have to take potassium, calcium, and magnesium supplements daily to prevent leg cramps. When I go backpacking I bring extra. But I still get cramps sometimes so I'll give that a shot and let you all know how it worked for me.