The summer season is the time when heat and humidity levels rise. Therefore, it becomes really important to keep your body hydrated all day long. It’s not only about gulping down glasses of water or juice. Your diet has a major role to play in serving that purpose. The experts have listed plenty of food items that have a lot of water content. Aside from that, these foods contain almost all the essential nutrients that your body needs and have the potential to help you ward off diseases. It’s time to take notes, add them to your platter, and gorge on them to beat the heat. You are surely going to love them. So, just dive in.
Cucumbers
Fresh cucumbers are a great hydrating agent. A cucumber contains 95% water and is, therefore, a key food item you need to replenish your body and skin. Aside from that, the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds in cucumbers can discard waste from your system and also diminish skin irritation.
According to preliminary research, cucumbers work as anti-aging as well as anti-wrinkling agents. Laying your hands on cucumbers is easy as they are readily available at a grocer’s shop or the farmers’ market in your locality. For best results, slice a cucumber and place two slices on the skin under the eyes for approximately 15 minutes. Doing this regularly will reduce the puffiness and redness.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a refreshing fruit that’s also great to taste. In addition to containing 91% of water, watermelons are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, as well as a host of healthy plant compounds. Water and fiber make it a wholesome food. A cup of watermelon contains only 46 calories.
Lycopene is abundantly present in watermelons and protects the cells from the UV rays of the sun, thus improving your skin complexion. Improved heart health, prevention of macular degeneration, prevention of cancer, etc. are some other benefits that you get from watermelons.
Strawberries
Strawberries are sweet and you can easily have them as a dessert. However, aside from tasting good, strawberries have a range of health benefits. With over 90% of water content, strawberries are a great agent for body hydration. Having optimum levels of flavonoids, strawberries can boost cognitive function.
As per a study, strawberry consumption can delay cognitive aging by almost 2 and a half years. Strawberries are packed with fiber, vitamins, and anti-oxidants and are fat-free and sodium-free. They are also a great source of potassium and manganese.
Cauliflower
You might be surprised with the inclusion of cauliflower in this list, but the fact is cauliflowers with 92% water content are great hydrating agents. They have good quantities of vitamin C, vitamin K, and anti-oxidants. Cauliflowers are rich in choline, high in sulforaphane, and also support hormonal balance. Additionally, they are highly beneficial for your immune system and a high-fiber item. From 80 grams of raw cauliflower, you get 24 kcal. By adding this cruciferous vegetable to your platter, you lower the risks of high cholesterol and cancer.
Iceberg Lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is known to contain 95% water and that makes it one of the best hydrating agents in summer. Iceberg lettuce can be a great addition to a salad. The presence of calcium, potassium, folate, vitamin C, and several nutrients can meet the daily requirements of your body. The mild and sweet flavor along with a pleasant crunch can make it a treat to gorge on. However, iceberg lettuce is not as nutritious as other leafy greens. Spinach with a 91% water content can be a good option.
Celery
Celery is quite popular for its fiber content. Containing 95% water, celery is at par with iceberg lettuce and cucumbers. Celery is known for its low calories and high levels of potassium, folate, and vitamin K. Celery juice contains 26 mg of Magnesium, 56.6 mg of Phosphorus, 94.4 mg of Calcium, 189 mg of Sodium, 51.9 mcg of vitamin A, 0.175 mg of vitamin B6, 7.32 mg of vitamin C, and 69.1 mcg of vitamin K. Celery juice is more beneficial for you than a stalk of celery.
Other foods that can keep you hydrated all through the summer are oranges, peaches, cantaloupe, broths and soups, zucchini, plain yogurt, and skim milk. However, you should choose your summer foods based on your dietary needs and preferences.