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Summer is here in South Carolina and around the US. And as we enter the end of June, we are regularly experiencing temperatures in the upper 90’s. That’s right folks….it’s hot out there! When it’s that warm outside, it’s vital to hydrate your body.
Moderate dehydration creates considerable stress on the body and ultimately can lead to symptoms such as:
- low blood pressure
- nausea
- fatigue
- shortness of breath
- increased heart rate
- brain fog
Drinking plenty of water and natural electrolyte beverages are important, but what many people fail to take into consideration is getting water from the food we eat. We should typically be consuming 20% of our daily water intake from the foods we eat. And those who consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables do get that amount of water from food. But those who consume the average American diet, filled with highly processed and packaged foods get very little water from those foods.
When you need some extra hydration, reaching for one of these foods can provide extra benefits that a glass of water cannot. Eating these fruits and vegetables provide extra nutrients, such as natural sugars, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that are lost when you sweat.
Jere are 20 healthy foods that can help hydrate you
- Cucumbers- 96% water. Cucumbers also contain silica which is a trace mineral that is important to keep the connective tissue healthy.
- Lettuce- 96% water- lettuce is high in vitamin A, K, C and folate. It is also rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium and potassium. All of this and it’s very low in calories too!
- Zucchini- 95% water-this popular summer squash is high in both vitamin C as well as omega-3 fatty acids.
- Radish- 95% water- great source of vitamin C and fiber.
- Celery- 95% water- high in antioxidants and enzymes and a great source of vitamin K.
- Tomato- 94% water- rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and beta carotene.
- Zucchini- 94% water- high in nutrients like manganese and potassium, it is also rich in antioxidants.
- Green cabbage- 93% water- high in antioxidants, highly anti-inflammatory and great for the digestive system.
- Bell peppers- 92% water- excellent source of vitamin C, E and antioxidants.
- Watermelon- 92% water- rich in lycopene which is important for heart health. High in vitamin C.
- Spinach- 91%- Very high in vitamin K, A and manganese.
- Strawberries- 91%- rich in antioxidants and very high in vitamin C.
- Broccoli- 91% water- High in vitamin C, K and chromium.
- Canteloupe- 90%- High in vitamin C and rich in antioxidants.
- Grapefruit- 89% water- High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Carrots- 87% water- Very high in vitamin A and beta carotene.
- Apples- 86% water- phytonutrients can help balance blood sugar. Rich in polyphenols.
- Raspberries- 85% water- Rich in vitamin C and manganese. High levels of antioxidants. Great anti-inflammatory action.
- Blueberries- 85% water- Strong antioxidant content.
- Pears- 84%- Rich in fiber.
When you need to hydrate, getting plenty of water is important…but be sure to also add some of these amazing, healthy foods to boost the nutrients that your body is getting while hydrating you at the same time!
