Did you know you can eat your water too?
By Beth Ceccarelli
The dog days of summer are here, which means hydration is a must. Drinking the recommended eight glasses of water per day may be a struggle for some of us, but did you know that you can actually eat your water, too? Certain fruits and vegetables have a higher water content than others, making them perfect choices on hot summer days to keep your body functioning at its best. Here, we’ve highlighted our top 10 water-rich foods to help quench your thirst this summer.
Watermelon
With a water content topping out at 92 percent, watermelon is an excellent choice when it comes to hydrating this summer. Not only will it help you meet your daily fluid quota, but it’s loaded with good-for-you vitamins and minerals that can actually help refuel your body better than plain water.
Strawberries
Also containing 92 percent water, strawberries are a sweet way to add some nourishing liquid to your diet. Blend them in a smoothie, use them as a cereal topper or eat them as they are to get a healthy fix of fiber, protein, vitamin C and potassium.
Peaches
It’s peach season. Not only is this juicy stone fruit packed with vitamin A and potassium (good for healthy eyes and blood pressure control), but its high water content (88 percent) makes it a tasty way to cool off and rehydrate after sweaty afternoons in the hot summer sun.
Pineapple
Heat got you feeling sluggish? A bowl of pineapple may be the perfect pick-me-up. Not only does it contain 87 percent water to replenish your body with vital fluids, but its high B vitamin content will help give you a much-needed energy boost.
Tomatoes
There’s nothing quite like a ripe summer tomato with its natural sweetness and versatility. With a water content of 88 percent, these popular veggies provide a healthy dose of immune-boosting antioxidants while hydrating the body.
Cucumbers
Cool and crunchy, cucumbers are a thirst-quenching 96 percent water. Its high vitamin C content and inflammation-fighting compounds make this veggie delicious on salads, sandwiches or as a snack.
Cantaloupe
The perfect post-heat snack due to its 92 percent water content and vitamin A, C and potassium, this juicy melon will replenish your body and revive your energy.
Grapefruit
Whether eaten neatly with your grapefruit spoon, squeezed into juice or devoured like an orange, this deliciously tart citrus fruit will have you staying hydrated and satiated due to its fiber and potassium and 91 percent water content.
Zucchini
One of the most hydrating foods you can eat, zucchini is 95 percent water. At its peak in the summer (so go grab them), this sweet, mild veggie also contains a healthy dose of folate, potassium and vitamins C and A.
Celery
Get crunching. While you may not think much about this favorite standby, celery is a great hydrating veggie with its 96 percent water content. It also boasts a high mineral and nutrient content that’s specifically designed to effectively rehydrate the body. ••
Visit your local ShopRite store dietitian for more information on how to hydrate with fruits and veggies this summer or visit ShopRite.com
