Fruits and Vegetables That Can Help You Stay Hydrated
By Paul Rothbart
An important key to good health is staying hydrated. Many people do not drink nearly enough water each day. Water has many health benefits that include aiding digestion, helping keep the brain healthy, and lubricating joints. The body loses fluids through sweat, tears, and other processes throughout the day and those fluids must be replaced. The obvious way to do that is to drink beverages that are water-based or to drink plain water. But there is another way. There are many fruits and vegetables with a high enough water content to help you stay hydrated.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is a sweet, delicious melon that is great in a fruit salad, a smoothie, or just on its own. It makes an excellent breakfast component and it is 90 percent water. One serving provides a half cup of water. In addition to the water, a one-cup serving contains two grams of fiber. Combined with the water, this can fill you up, helping to prevent excess eating and aiding weight loss.
Watermelon
Watermelon lives up to its name with a water content of 92 percent. Like cantaloupe, a one-cup serving contains more than a half cup of water. Watermelon is low in calories, making it an excellent diet food. It's a great fruit salad component and is a popular summertime dessert. You can also grill watermelon, but keep in mind that grilling reduces the water content.
Cucumber
A common salad staple, cucumbers are known for their mild flavor. You can eat every part of the cucumber including the skin and seeds. This green vegetable is almost entirely water with a content of 95 percent. A half-cup serving contains just eight calories. Cucumbers are a great way to stay hydrated and lose weight.
Lettuce
Popular as the base of a salad, lettuce is also a tasty addition to sandwiches and burgers and can be used to make wraps. With a water content of 96 percent, it is one of the most hydrating foods there is. A single cup contains more than a quarter cup of water. Lettuce is also high in fiber and low in calories making it an excellent food for those who are trying to lose weight.
Celery
Celery is another vegetable loaded with water, sporting a content of 95 percent. It's great in soups or salads and makes a nice snack on its own. A one-cup serving contains about a half cup of water. Celery is filling and low in calories so it is also a great weight-loss food.
Part of staying healthy is getting enough water. It doesn't have to come in liquid form. Add some of these fruits and vegetables to your diet for hydration, nutrition, and great taste.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Valencia, Calif.