We’re living through record-high temperatures this summer, which means staying hydrated has never been more important. After all, one-third of the human body is composed of water. Water is necessary for almost every function of our body, and while the “eight glasses a day” rule may be a “quasi-fact” according to Dr Michael Hartman, there are guidelines: about 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 cups for men.
If you’re not hitting these goals, you may be dehydrated, which leads to fatigue and headaches, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, skin problems, and much more.
It’s not only beverages like water that can help with hydration. Your diet can be a source of water too. Here are 10 foods to help with your water intake, because foods that are rich in water can help fight dehydration.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers top the list of super-hydrating foods. Made of 96 per cent water, cucumbers are a low-calorie, high-fibre food that is also filled with vitamin C, the antioxidants flavonoids and tannins. Additionally, a single medium-sized cucumber meets about half your daily goal for vitamin K.
Lettuce
No filler food here! This humble vegetable actually has surprising benefits. Made of 96 per cent water, it’s also a fantastic source of fibre (the darker the colour of the leaf, the better for you) along with vitamins C and A to support healthy skin and eyes.
Tomatoes
Whether small or giant, from beefsteak to San Marzano, this summer fruit provides plenty of hydration. Tomatoes contain 95 per cent water and are filled with lycopene and beta-carotene antioxidants that help lower cancer risk, strengthen bones, and preserve skin.
Radishes
Typically forgotten, the humble and simple radish has 95 per cent water. They are also a mini superfood, fantastic for detoxifying the body, as well as filled with vitamin C and potassium to help with heart health.
Celery
Celery juice is a staple in wellness routines for a reason: The vegetable is not only made of 95 per cent water, but it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre to help cleanse and fight inflammation in the body.
Courgette
Steamed, baked, or raw: courgette is made up of 93 per cent water, along with vitamins A, E, and C, skin-beautifying antioxidants that cooking at high temperatures can neutralise.
Watermelon
It’s a summer staple for a reason. Watermelon is made up of 92 per cent water and is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium.
Strawberries
A true summer treat, strawberries are incredibly thirst-quenching: 91 per cent of their weight comes from water itself. In addition, this healthy food is a source of antioxidant lycopene, which protects the skin from UV rays, and vitamin C, which stimulates collagen.
Cantaloupe
The cantaloupe melon contains 90 per cent water. In addition, this fragrant fruit is rich in vitamin A, which is vital, especially in summer, for healthy skin.
Peaches
This summer fruit is a combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (such as beta-carotene and vitamin C, which protect against UV rays) – along with 88 per cent water.
Original article appeared on British Vogue
