Water is essential for human health, but water alone does not hydrate the body. In fact, people can increase their hydration level and water intake with many foods and other drinks.
Eating healthful hydrating foods — especially during warm weather, when the body loses water and vital electrolytes through sweating — can keep hydration levels up and provide a variety of nutrients.
These foods contain at least 85% water, making them a great choice for a person’s hydration needs.
Hydrating foods: The top 10 and their benefits
Cucumber
The top of the list – the almighty cucumber – one of the most water-dense vegetables. That doesn’t mean it lacks nutrients, though. This vegetable contains multiple B vitamins (B1, B5, and B7). B vitamins help nourish our nervous system, and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
Tomato
tomatoes also make the list of the top 15 water-dense foods. They’re a great source of vitamins A, C and folic acid, and contain lycopene, an antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red colour, and has been found to significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Watermelon
we’re all aware that watermelon is high in water – that’s why most of us turn to watermelon on a hot summers day. It is by far, one of the most powerful, body-healing fruits out there, with benefits ranging from reduction in body fat, cardiovascular-strengthening effects, anti-inflammatory effects, kidney support, and helps alkalize the body.
Raspberries
These tasty little fruits are among some of highest-ranking plant foods in terms of water content. They have been researched for their potential in management of obesity by increasing enzyme activity, oxygen consumption, and heat production in certain types of fat cells. That, PLUS they are high in antioxidants for total body-healing effects.
Orange
Just like grapefruit, oranges are naturally high in water, but rank a little lower than the grapefruit. Oranges are incredibly body-healing, vibrating with only the purest of life energy. They help clear out mucoid plaque (thanks to their citric acid content) and help lower blood pressure, alkalize the body, improve digestive health and lower cholesterol among so much more.
Pineapple
The pineapple might only be 87% water, but it is one of the best anti-inflammatory fruits out there, thanks to bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme in pineapples that helps reduce pain and swelling and eases discomfort in those suffering from arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, sinusitis and inflammatory skin conditions (acne, eczema, rosacea, dermatitis and psoriasis).
Cantaloupe
This succulent melon contains 2% less water than watermelon, but is still, nonetheless, a great water-dense fruit. It is packed with nutrition, with just 1/4 of a melon providing you with 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamins A and C! I love making melon smoothies. Try blending cantaloupe with a little bit of lemon and ginger for a satisfyingly sweet and sour smoothie.
Peach
These fuzzy globes of deliciousness help hydrate your body, as well as protect against cancer, aid in weight loss and heal the heart. Make sure you eat organic peaches, however. The conventional peaches are sprayed with a lot of pesticides.
Coconut water
A tender coconut milk is the best body cooler drink to include in one’s diet during summers. It is a water-based fluid containing enough vitamins and minerals to cool down the body’s temperature.
Honeydew melon
This sweet, yellow-green melon is a type of muskmelon that is a good source of potassium and vitamin C Trusted Source. It also contains folate, magnesium, and vitamin K.
Summary
Hydration is about more than drinking water. Many foods contain water and additional nutrients that are vital for good health.
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a good way to supply the body with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while adding to daily water intake.