Whether you’re trying to lose weight, improve your skin, monitor digestion, or improve your overall health, water is the key. While drinking plenty of water each day is needed for optimal health, there are other ways to hit your water goals. And many times when you think you’re hungry, you’re actually thirsty.
Check out these delicious options that will keep you healthy and hydrated.
- Celery: The high water content (95%) and low calories in celery make it a great choice to hydrate. Its natural salt content also provides electrolyte balance.
- Zucchini: This gourd contains 94% water and is great sautéed, raw on salads, or spiraled into noodles.
- Tomatoes: Also coming in at 94% water, tomatoes contain other nutrients including fiber, vitamins C and K, lycopene and potassium.
- Watermelon: With a water content of around 92%, watermelon is a hydration powerhouse.
- Bell peppers: These versatile vegetables that grow in green, red and yellow, have a water content of about 92%.
- Broccoli (raw): Cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli (92% water), cauliflower, and cabbage are beneficial sources of water, plus fiber, iron, and potassium.
- Grapefruit: Increase your water intake by eating this citrus fruit, with 91% water.
- Cucumbers: These are composed of 95% water. Including cucumbers in your diet not only adds hydration but also provides essential nutrients like vitamins K and C.
- Eggplant: When consumed raw, eggplant is 92% water and contains carbohydrates as well as protein.
- Cantaloupe: Like watermelons, this nutritious melon is high in water content, at 90%.
- Pears: Coming in with a water content of 84%, pears are a great source of hydration and fiber that promote gut health.
- Romaine lettuce: This lettuce contains roughly 94% water and is a great foundation for salads.
- Pineapple: This tropical fruit is 86% water and adds a refreshing burst of flavor to your diet.
- Carrots: These roots vegetables can contain about 95% water and may help balance blood sugar and blood pressure.
- Mango: When ripe, these tropical fruits can contain 85% water. They’re delicious eaten raw, in sauces or in salads.
- Apples: Not only are apples hydrating (water content at 86%), they are also full of fiber and vitamins.
- Strawberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, strawberries are a hydrating addition to your diet, containing about 91% water.
