The summer is as good a time as any to remember to stay hydrated. It’s recommended for adults to drink six to eight glasses of water a day, but keeping up with that can be a bit of a tall task. The good news is that a lot of the water we intake can come from foods as well. This can make staying hydrated that much easier.
While water is the best way to stay hydrated, consuming fresh foods like salads can be a great way to absorb a little H2O as well, as lots of fruits and vegetables are more than 80 percent water.
Here’s a look at nine excellent fruits and vegetables that can keep you hydrated this summer!
1. Cucumbers
Cucumbers have a water content more than 90 percent and can actually help the body not only stay hydrated, but flush out toxins as well. Try adding cucumbers to your salad to increase your intake.
Read more about the healthiest fruits and vegetables
2. Celery
Not only is celery loaded with H20, it’s also rich in antioxidants and can also act as an anti-inflammatory. Try putting some natural peanut butter on some stalks for a great mid day snack.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are 94 percent water, and can also help keep your skin looking great. It’s a good source of beta-carotene which can help protect your skin from sun damage.
4. Green peppers
Green peppers are juicy and chock full of H20, and are also excellent sources of antioxidants. Try munching on some green peppers as a snack between meals to help stay hydrated.
5. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a bit of an underrated vegetable, but it’s more than 90 percent water and is also a great source of fiber, which can help keep you regular.
6. Watermelon
One bite into a juicy piece of watermelon will tell you just how rich in water it is. They’re also excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and B6. These are best-served ice cold!
7. Broccoli
Broccoli is also very good source of both vitamin A and vitamin K. Try adding finely chopped pieces of broccoli to any salad to increase your water intake.
8. Grapefruit
Grapefruits are extremely tangy and juicy. And aside from being a great source of water, it’s also loaded with vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system. Try adding half a grapefruit as part of your breakfast.
Read more about ways to stay hydrated besides water
9. Cantaloupe
Cantaloupes are sweet, juicy and delicious. They’re also 90 percent water and are great sources of vitamin A and C. Be sure to make these a staple in your fruit salads.
While water is always the best way to stay hydrated, these fruits and vegetables can be a great way to supplement your intake.
Image: Pablo Costanzo
