During the hot summer months, it can be easy to become dehydrated. However, many people are not a huge fan of drinking water, so instead, they drink beverages such as coffee or soda. Both of which can make you feel ill in the summer heat, and can even help bring on dehydration. Drinking plenty of water so you can stay hydrated during the summer (and any time) is essential for your health. Dehydration can cause a person to experience a rapid heart rate, fatigue, muscle cramping, headaches, and low blood pressure. Chronic dehydration can eventually lead to serious health complications, so it’s important to hydrate properly. Luckily, you don’t need just water to stay hydrated. You can stay hydrated by eating water-rich foods.
While drinking water is vital for your health, there are other ways to quench your thirst. Plenty of water-rich foods are out there, and they can help you stay hydrated, especially when the temperatures are hot.
Zucchini– Considered to be a very healthy, nutritious vegetable, zucchini has a pretty high water content. Having a 94% water content, zucchini makes a perfect addition to any salad or stir-fry.
Watermelon– A summertime favorite, eating watermelon is a great way to stay hydrated on those hot, humid days. With its 92% water content, watermelon is one of the most hydrating foods you can eat.
Lettuce– Eating your greens is essential for your digestive health, and it may also help keep you hydrated with its 96% water content.
Star Fruit– While you may not have heard of this tropical fruit, star fruit is approximately 91% water. Star fruit comes in both tart and sweet varieties and is high in antioxidants.
Bell Peppers– Bell peppers are high in nutrients and water. Containing a water content of approximately 92%, bell peppers are excellent eaten raw in salads.
Cucumber– Cucumber has a water content of roughly 95%, the highest water content of any solid food, making cucumbers the perfect healthy and refreshing summer vegetable.
Cantaloupe– Delivering more than half a cup of water per serving, cantaloupe is roughly 90% water. Delicious to eat at any time, cantaloupe will help keep you hydrated and full.
