Hot summer months can bring around the issues of quenching thirst and issues of dehydration. If you live in an extremely hot and dry area, it is likely that the summer heat will end up taking a toll on your health. But, let’s be honest, nobody likes to drink just water all the time. Yes, it is necessary but sometimes, you need a change in the habit too.

Have you ever thought of “eating” your water instead of drinking it? Sounds quite interesting, doesn’t it? In here, we are going to list out some of the best fruits and vegetables that you can eat to replenish the water and nutrient levels in the body.

Cucumber

You can’t go wrong with this vegetable or fruit that contains around 95% of water. This veggie is one of those that contains a hefty amount of water in it that can help quench your thirst and replenish the lost electrolytes too. It is also enriched with potassium and fisetin which is an antiinflammatory compound that helps improve brain health.

Watermelon

If there’s a fruit that is known for their water content, it has to be cucumber. It is packed with 92% water and let’s be honest, it tastes amazing. Aside from the high water content, this fruit packs in a forray of Vitamins including Vitamin A, B6 and C. It also has lycopene which helps in reducing the risks of free radical damage in the body. You can either munch on some watermelon straight up or even throw some into the water to flavor it.

Celery

Another amazing vegetable that works as a good hydrator is Celery. It is made up of 95% water and an anti-cancer compound known as luteolin. It has been found potent in helping reduce the risks associated with cancer cell growth in the body. Aside from that, celery is also high in apigenin, which is a crucial compound helpful in reducing the risks of breast cancer.

Radishes

Not many people realise its benefits but radishes are quite amazing with their water content. It is made of 95% water and are an amazing food item to snack on and carry around when you are out and about. They are known for their natural cooling effect on the body, which is one of the main reasons why it has gained so much popularity. The mild spicy after taste can be a little off putting, but its good for you during summers.

Kiwis

This is one of the most underrated fruits, especially when it comes to its benefits. Kiwis are known to contain more Vitamin C than oranges do. It contains around 85% water in it and has the potassium level of a medium banana. Not just that, kiwis are also quite amazing for diabetes patients, especially because of their low glycemic index. It helps boost your immunity and at the same time, take care of your hydration needs too.

Potatoes

Not many would think of this but potatoes contain around 80% of water and a good amount of potassium in it as well. If you struggle with high blood pressure, this is one of those vegetables that are a must have for you. Some of the variants of potatoes like the red skinned ones contain a higher water percentage than the regular ones. Not only does it taste good, it keeps you hydrated too.

Cantaloupe

Let’s be real, cantaloupe isn’t everyone’s favourite and that’s okay. In case you are looking for a good rehydrator that you can munch on, Cantaloupe is your guy. It consists of 90% water content and is quite versatile too. Since it doesn’t have a very distinct taste of its own, you can add it to salads, shave it on top of food or even scoop some out and eat it directly without any hassle. It is as easy as that.

Tomatoes

You can never go wrong with tomatoes. It contains around 95% of water and is one of the best vegetables that is packed with nutrients in them. It is also a rich source of lycopene, which helps keep your body’s antioxidant levels in check. Aside from that, tomatoes are also loaded with potassium, Vitamin A and C. But, it is extremely important that you keep an eye out on the amount of tomatoes you are consuming. Don’t go overboard.

Iceberg lettuce

Salads are a safe haven when it comes to summer months. They are refreshing and light on the stomach, just what you need to bear the scorching heat of the sun. Iceberg lettuce is one of the most leaves that you can add to your salads to make it more filling. To be honest, this leaf doesn’t have a lot of nutrition packed in it but it does pack in 96% percent water, which is crazy. Aside from that, it is extremely low on calories and has a balance of Vitamin A and C.

Pineapple

If there’s one fruit that steals the show as an all-rounder, it has to be pineapple. This tropical fruit contains around 86% water and variants of Vitamins in it. It also packs in a good balance of potassium, manganese and magnesium which further ensures that you are eating good and well. Bromelain, the active compound in pineapple also helps improve your body’s antiinflammatory response.

In case you have been looking for some good alternatives for water during these hot summer months, these are some of the best options. They are not just helpful in restoring your hydration levels but also help improve your nutritional needs of the body. In case you want a good balance of the nutritional elements in your body, this is one of the best ways to do so.

By Somapika Dutta