Stay Hydrated ... With Food!
By Sara Butler
With summer on the horizon, it's time for your annual reminder that hydration is incredibly important when the temperatures soar. If you don't drink enough water then you can become dehydrated, which can cause a myriad of health problems such as low blood pressure, increased heart rate, muscle cramps, fatigue, and headaches. While you know you have to drink water to stay hydrated, drinking isn't the only way to ensure you're meeting your hydration needs. Try adding a few of these foods to your summer diet to help you work toward proper hydration.
Watermelon
Watermelon is 92 percent water, so no wonder it's such a popular summertime treat.
Just one cup of watermelon has a half cup of water, as well as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, magnesium, and fiber. It's low in calories too, with just 46 calories per cup. Their low-calorie density is due to all the water contained within, so it helps you stay full, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy weight.
Strawberries
Strawberries are 91 percent water, helping to contribute to your daily hydration goals. They're also full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. In fact, they're so good for you that they've been shown in studies to reduce inflammation to protect your body against developing chronic diseases such as certain types of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is 90 percent water with a host of other benefits to boost your health.
One cup of cantaloupe contains two grams of fiber, which works to help you feel fuller for longer and keep your appetite under control. It also happens to be a food rich in Vitamin A, which helps to support a healthy immune system to help you fight off infection.
Peaches
Peaches are 89 percent water with important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium. If you eat peaches with the skin on, then you're also getting a boost of antioxidants and fiber.
One medium peach has only 60 calories, which makes it a great food to add to your summer diet plans for better hydration.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are 95 percent water -- but that's not all! They have important nutrients in them too, such as Vitamin K, magnesium, and potassium. In comparison to other vegetables high in water content, cucumbers are some of the lowest in calories with just 8 calories in one cup.
If you want some more ideas about staying hydrated, then talk to the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic today! They're a go-to source for many health needs -- not just a sore back.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lynnwood, Wash.