Staying hydrated is essential for a healthy body and mind. Being dehydrated can make you feel tired, restless, and just bad overall. There are many different methods to re-hydrate your body. But, it’s easy to become tired of chugging water or drinking electrolyte or sports drinks. Luckily, there are several different foods for hydration that contain high amounts of water to keep you going throughout the day. From watermelon to yogurt, these seven powerhouse foods will provide your body with the hydration needed to stay energized and alert.
Cucumber
Cucumbers have the greatest amount of water content of any solid food. With a water content of 96.7%, they are one of the best foods for hydration. Cucumbers contain high levels of magnesium, potassium, and sodium that help replenish fluids in the body. They’re also full of fiber and antioxidants that can protect your cells from damage and boost your immune system. You can eat raw cucumbers in salads, dip them in hummus or tzatziki, mix them into yogurt, eat with mint, or even freeze slices into ice cubes. Any way you eat them, cucumbers are sure to make you feel more refreshed.
Watermelon
Watermelon is packed with vitamins and minerals that help you stay hydrated. It has a high-water content of 92%, which means it can help replenish fluids quickly. like cucumbers, watermelon also contains important electrolytes like magnesium and potassium that help your body maintain its balance of fluids. Eating watermelon regularly will provide your body with the hydration needed to stay healthy and energetic.
Iceberg Lettuce
Iceberg lettuce has a water content of 95.6%, which is the highest water content of any lettuce variety. You can eat iceberg lettuce on a sandwich, in a salad, or even use as a wrap for burgers or tacos.
Celery
Celery is a low calorie food, having only six calories per stalk and a water content equal to 95.4%.. This vegetable also has enough fiber to fill you up and keep you satisfied. Celery also contains several nutrients and vitamins including folate, vitamin K, vitamin A, and Vitamin C. It’s also able to neutralize stomach acid due to its high water content. If you struggle to get your daily amount of water in, adding celery to your meals or snacking on it throughout the day is a great way to stay hydrated.
Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the best power foods for hydration. It is filled with beneficial probiotics, which are naturally occurring and healthy bacteria, that help your body break down food. Yogurt also has higher water content and fewer calories than other options. Eating natural plain yogurt without added sugar helps to keep you hydrated and maintain a feeling of fullness. Additionally, yogurt contains calcium for strong bones and teeth, as well as B vitamins and vitamin D for healthy skin.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers have a water content of 93.9%. All colors of bell peppers have a very high water content. Green peppers have the highest water content, followed by red and yellow bell peppers. Bell peppers are also extremely high in antioxidants, which fight free radicals. Bell peppers can be eaten raw with hummus, added to a salad, or cooked in addition to other vegetables in a stir fry.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower has a water content of 92.1%. They also are high in phytonutrients and vitamins that are known to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cancers. Cauliflower is delicious in both raw and cooked forms. You can dip cauliflower in ranch or hummus, roast a head of cauliflower, or add it to soups.
There are many common foods for hydration. Try to incorporate more of these seven powerhouse foods in your daily diet. But, don’t forget to also drink water throughout the day. If you’re bored with plain water, you can always try one of these easy water-infused recipes!
