Drinking water can be boring right? Yup, we understand. If you don’t know, water is the most plentiful substance in the body and it has so many responsibilities believe it or not! Water regulates body temperature, protects organs, transports nutrients and oxygen to cells, and many more. Your daily water intake is important for your health, especially in these warm Summer days! The right amount of hydration varies by size, overall health status, activity and even medications. We know how boring drinking plain ol water can get, that’s why we rounded up a few of our favorite foods that have an abundance of water in them. Nothing beats drinking a nice cool glass of water, but for those who need some variety, you can try some of these fresh foods.
1. Cucumbers: 95 % water content
Cucumbers are filled with water, and they are so versatile which is why we love them! If you’re looking to jazz up a glass of water, you can add cucumber slices to them with some mint leaves. Mmmm, refreshing! Cucumbers are a great addition to any salad, or veggie platter served with your favorite dip. Not only are they a great thirst quencher, they have essential vitamins and minerals. In just 1 cup you’ll get a great amount of fiber, vitamin C and potassium.
2. Strawberries: 91% water content
Enjoy a small bowl of sweet ripe strawberries to keep your body hydrated. They are great for smoothies, yogurt and oatmeal toppings, or even in a salad and as apart of a meal. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and fiber perfect for protecting your immune system while keeping digestion regular. If you are looking to add flavor to your water, you can throw in some strawberries and other favorite fruits.
3. Radishes: 95% water content
Have you had a radish before? These cute vegetables add color, flavor and texture to your plate. Radishes are perfect in a slaw and add a great crunch to your favorite dish. But most importantly, they can give you that hydrating punch you deserve. This vegetable contains a healthy dose of vitamin C which aids in immune health, and fiber for digestive health.
4. Cantaloupe: 90% water content
What’s not to love about cantaloupe?! This melon is low in calories and packed with nutrients. They are a great addition to a fruit salad or smoothie. Since cantaloupe is 90 percent water, it’s also the perfect fruit to help with hydration during the warmer days! Cantaloupe is great source of vitamin C and vitamin A, in the form of carotenoids. It’s actually thought to be one of the highest fruit sources of vitamin A, while also providing potassium, and B vitamins to get your energy levels where they need to be.
5. Peaches: 89% water content
We love peaches! Give this sweet fruit a rinse and bite into its fuzzy skin to replenish your body’s water content. We love the color of peaches but we also love the loads of essential nutrients it has to offer. They taste great warm and are perfect for grilling. Just scoop out your favorite ice cream or yogurt and pair them together for a perfect Summer treat.
6. Spinach: 92% water content
Who would’ve known that spinach carries a high water content?! Well yes, it certainly does. They also provide fiber and iron. Iron is used to carry oxygen in the blood. Fiber is best known for aiding in digestive health and may also reduce the risk of certain diseases like heart disease, obesity, and some cancers. We love it as a salad base or in a smoothie!
7. Watermelon: 92% water content
This one is pretty obvious right? The name says it all, and watermelon is a perfect snack for summer, when the sun tends to drain all the moisture out of your body. The brightly colored fruit is naturally sweet and can be added to a fruit salad or blended and poured into an ice tray or a popsicle mold. Have you had grilled watermelon? If not, you are indeed missing out. Slice it up, brush on some honey and get grilling. Perfect for Sunday brunch. Just one cup of melon balls contain plenty of vitamins C and A, which promote the growth and repair of the body’s cells and help keep your bones and eyes healthy, and skin glowing.
So the next time you get tired of drinking plain water, get creative and jazz it up with these foods so you can stay hydrated, while reaping its health benefits! Basically a win, win.