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March 6, 2014

9 Hydrating Foods to Eat During National Nutrition Month

It’s no secret that drinking water is part of maintaining a healthy diet. After all, our bodies are mostly made of water. But, you may not know that many of the fruits and vegetables you eat can help you consume more water on a daily basis.

In celebration of National Nutrition Month, here are nine hydrating foods that are packed with nutrients and can help you reach the recommended amount of daily water intake.

Cucumbers: Topping the list at 96.7% water content, cucumbers contain the highest water content of any food. Eat it with your favorite dressing, pair it with a salad or even add it your water to make every meal extra refreshing.

Pears: Sweet and juicy, pears are also high in water content and soluble fiber, which can promote healthy weight loss by helping you feel fuller, longer.

Celery: Next to drinking water, eating celery is the one of the easiest ways to reach the recommended daily water intake. Made of approximately 95% water, celery is high in fiber and vitamins A, C and K. At only six calories per stalk, you can feel good about pairing it with peanut butter for a healthy snack.

Strawberries: It is said that all berries contain hydrating benefits. However, while raspberries and blueberries are approximately 85% water, strawberries contain more than 90% water. The perfect mix of sweet and tangy, strawberries make the perfect addition to a cup of Greek yogurt or breakfast smoothie.

Baby carrots: Next time you’re looking for an afternoon snack, pick up some baby carrots. Not only will this crunchy snack help you curb your appetite, it can help you reach your recommended daily water intake, too.

Watermelon: When the weather gets warm, you can count on this summertime favorite to help you stay hydrated. With the word “water” in its name, it’s no wonder why watermelon is considered one of the most hydrating foods. Made of 91% water, this juicy red fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant known for its cancer fighting powers.

Mixed greens & spinach: Next time you’re wondering what to make for lunch, toss a salad. Spinach isn’t called a superfood for just any reason. Containing more than 90% water, spinach also contains important vitamins and antioxidants that can defend your body from free radicals. Plus, when you add the hydrating vegetables mentioned above to your salad, you could consume a decent portion of your daily water intake in one meal.

Grapefruit: At about 90% water, grapefruit is well known for its health benefits. In fact, according to researchers in California, eating grapefruit can help lower insulin levels and control appetite, leading to healthy weight loss. Eat it plain or squeeze some in your water to enjoy the hydration properties of this pink fruit.

Tomatoes: No matter how you slice it or dice it, next to celery, tomatoes are one of the most hydrating foods. Made of 94.5% water, tomatoes contain the cancer-fighting antioxidant lycopene and can be used to supplement a variety of recipes.

When you eat healthy foods, like fruits and veggies, you’ll be fueling your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Not only will these foods provide you with powerful vitamins and antioxidants, they’ll help you reach the recommended daily water intake, too.

What are some of your favorite fruits and vegetables, and how do you incorporate them into your daily diet?

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