Stay Hydrated with Food

Water accounts for 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. It also carries nutrients and oxygen to our cells, aids in the digestive process, and performs 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 eat real, whole food.

When you eat whole food, you get more than just water; you also get 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 rich in potassium, an electrolyte lost when we sweat.

Veggies:

Cucumbers, Tomatoes, celery, cauliflower, spinach, and Broccoli are also water-dense—broccoli is, in fact, 90% water—and are 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!

Lemon Lime Electrolyte Drink

Cucumber Cilantro Salad

Watermelon Salad 

Bean Salad

Baked Beans