Drinking enough water is important to keep your skin glowing, your organs and cells functioning. Human beings are made up of about 80% water – so having your daily 6 glasses of H2O is really important.
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If drinking water is something you forget about during your day, Henry Ford Health advises to fill a bottle in the morning and track your consumption of it throughout the day.
But what if you could get your H2O intake through the foods you eat? Dr Marjan Moghaddam from Henry Ford Health says eating water-dense foods like melons, berries and limes are ‘great way(s) to supplement your fluid intake’.
Watermelon
It is known as one of the most hydrating foods and is made up of 92% water. A 1-cup serving contains more than a half cup of water, plus Vitamin C, A and Magnesium. Add this fruit to your diet by eating it as a cool snack or side dish. You can also add to your summer salads.
Cucumber
Add some water to your portion of greens by adding chopped up cucumber. These long veggies are made up of 95% water, and one serving will provide your body with fiber, Vitamin A and Vitamin K.
Strawberry
About 91% of a strawberry’s weight comes from water, and eating these will definitely contribute to your intake. Berries also contain disease-fighting antioxidants and vitamins and minerals. You can incoporate berries into your diet by blending them in smoothies, salads or bespoke sandwiches and meals.
Oranges
We all know oranges contain great amounts of Vitamin C, but did you know that there is almost half a cup of water in one orange? Research shows that regularly eating citrus fruits may protect against kidney stones. This is because the citric acid inside the fruits can bind with stone-forming calcium oxalate.
Proper hydration in general helps curb the possibility of developing kidney stones.
Other hydrating foods: tomatoes, red cabbage, lettuce, peaches, apples and broth.
What happens when don’t drink enough water
- Dull skin: dehydration will lead to dry, ashy skin. It will appear less plump and elastic.
- Persistent headaches: throbbing headaches are often accompanied by dehydration. A quick fix is a glass of water.
- Weight gain: Dr. Moghaddam says that people often mistake thirst for hunger. He advises to drink a glass of water first before turning to a meal.
- Fatigue: brain fog and low energy levels can follow if you are dehydrated. The next time you seem tired, drink a glass of water before grabbing a cup of coffee.