Dehydration can cause all sorts of different problems throughout your body, including:
- Dry skin
- Fatigue
- Concentration problems
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
And if you become severely or chronically dehydrated, you may experience more severe problems, such as kidney stones, seizures, or organ failure.
The best way to avoid dehydration is to drink plenty of water and healthy liquids every day. But you can also get some hydration from your food.
Watermelon
Watermelon, as its name may imply, is mostly water—about 92 %. It’s also low in calories and a good source of vitamins A and C and many other health-promoting nutrients.
A few slices of watermelon can be the tastiest and most refreshing snack on a hot summer day.
Cauliflower
Although it might not seem like it, cauliflower is also 92% water. This cruciferous vegetable is also a great source of many different vitamins and minerals.
One interesting way to prepare cauliflower is to chop it up and use it as a substitute for rice. This can be a delicious way to add some special variation to your meals and provide you with more hydration than your typical grains.
Lettuce
You might be surprised to learn that lettuce is 96% water. This low-calorie leafy green is also a good source of vitamins A and K, which keep your bones healthy.
One of the best things about lettuce is that it can be easily added to almost any meal. So, if you’re looking for a simple and effective way to up your water intake, make yourself a salad or add them to your next recipe.
Celery
Celery is typically known for being high in fiber and low in calories, but it’s also 95% water. It’s also high in potassium and vitamin K, which are both important for maintaining cardiovascular health.
You can easily add it to your soup or stew or eat it as a healthy snack with some peanut butter, hummus, or dip.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are also 95% water and even lower in calories than celery.
Some people enjoy fresh cucumber slices as a nice snack on their own, while others like to add them to salads or cook them into stir-fries or other recipes.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are about 94% water. You’ll find approximately a half-cup of water in one medium tomato.
In addition to their many essential nutrients, tomatoes also provide a good amount of the antioxidant lycopene.
Lycopene gives tomatoes their characteristic red color, and it’s been linked to several health benefits, including protection against tissue damage, improving heart health, and even reducing the risks associated with cancer.
Strawberries
Strawberries contain around 91% water. They also supply vitamin C, folate (vitamin B9), and manganese, which are all important antioxidants that can help reduce your risk for various chronic illnesses.
They can be consumed fresh or frozen, or they can be added to all sorts of different recipes.
You can even add them to smoothies or slice them up for a tasty summertime salad.
