Health Resources Library

Stay Hydrated with Food

Water makes up 60-70% of our body weight.  It is a principle component of every cell in our body and every body system depends on it to function properly.

Water regulates body temperature, eliminates toxins, and helps our muscles and joints move, water carries nutrients and oxygen to our cells, aids in the digestive process and many other essential biochemical functions.

We all know that drinking adequate amounts of water will help keep us hydrated but drinking water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated.  According to the Institute of Medicine, 20% of your daily water intake comes from food.  But, that is only true if you are eating real, whole food.

When you eat whole food you get more than just the benefit of water, you get the benefit of other essential nutrients.  This summer include foods at your backyard barbeque, picnic in the park or day at the lake, that will both hydrate and nourish you.

Fruit:

Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Honeydew melon and Citrus fruits are water dense foods that are rich in potassium, an electrolyte that is lost when we sweat.

Veggies:

Cucumber, Tomatoes, celery, cauliflower, spinach and Broccoli are also water dense, broccoli in fact is 90% water, they are also excellent sources of vitamin C.  Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and protects against free radicals.

Legummes:

Green Beans, Kidney, and Garbanzo beans provide a balanced combo of carbohydrates and protein to keep your blood sugar balanced.  One cup of beans provides you with ½ cup water and half of your recommended daily fiber intake.

Try these hydrating recipes for your next summer gathering!

electrolyte drink

Cucumber Cilantro Salad

Watermelon Salad 

        

Bean Salad

Baked Beans

One response to “Stay Hydrated with Food”

  1. […] Cucumbers are 95% water, one of the most hydrating foods around. Being hydrated can reduce symptoms like headache, joint pain, and […]