Best Foods for Hydration
By Sara Butler
Most people are well aware of just how important it is to stay hydrated, especially when being active. The human body is made up of nearly 60 percent water. Every single system in the body depends on water to work efficiently. Water helps to rid the body of waste products, regulate body temperature, and carries nutrients to each and every cell. Water is important! But you don’t have to just drink water to stay hydrated. Here are some foods you can include in your daily life that will help you to get the water your body needs to function at its very best.
How Much?
So how much of your hydration can you expect to come from food? According to the Institute of Medicine, 20 percent of your daily intake of water comes from food. There are many fruits and vegetables that have a water content of 90 percent or higher.
If you’re going to be active outside, then you need to make sure you’re well-hydrated before ever leaving the house. If you’re not hydrated enough, it can cause a drop in your blood volume. That means it will be more difficult for your body to meet the demands of exercise and your performance level will suffer.
An Added Bonus
When you eat foods with high water content, you’re not just getting water. You also get electrolytes, fiber, and essential vitamins your body needs to function well. It’s an added bonus to getting enough water every day and a great incentive to eat foods with high water content.
A few foods to add to your list include:
- Celery – Celery may seem like a filler food but it’s actually good for you. They are 96 percent water but also provide you with potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.
- Watermelon – This melon is 95 percent water but also a great source of Vitamin C.
- Cucumbers -- A great source of magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium. Also 95 percent water – just keep the skin on!
- Bell peppers – A source of Vitamin C (more than an orange!) and 92 percent water.
- Strawberries – Rich in potassium, strawberries also are 92 percent water.
- Cantaloupe – Another great source of potassium, it is 90 percent water. Refreshing!
When the weather forecast predicts high temperature, make sure to stock up on these foods! And remember how important it is to stay hydrated in the summer heat for your overall health.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lubbock, Tex.