Everyone knows that hydration is important. Proper hydration helps the body’s functions and creates optimal health. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water is the best way to achieve peak hydration but water can be hard for some to swallow. It’s boring and tasteless. If you don’t like the idea of drinking only water, how can you make sure you’re hydrating the body enough? Here we will discuss a few other ways to ensure you’re getting enough hydration.
Because of some people’s negative attitude towards drinking water, many people choose other replenishing drinks for hydration. The problem with this is that not all drinks are created equal. Drinks containing alcohol, caffeine or high amounts of sugar will actually dehydrate the body and do more harm than good. Sports drinks are great replenishing drinks after a workout or sport they aren’t as good for you if you’ve been inactive. When we sweat we lose a lot of sodium that needs to be replac
d and sports drinks contain the sodium needed. However, if you have not been sweating then you are adding unnecessary sodium to the body.
If you are ok with drinking water than make sure you’re getting your 8-10 glasses a day. Try not to be overwhelmed. You don’t have to drink it all at once. Spread your intake throughout the day to make it more manageable. Drinking water before a meal will also help control your weight by training your body to eat less.
Drinks aren’t the only way to hydrate the body. Eating more soap is another way to increase your hydration but it doesn’t stop there. The following foods not only provide hydration but also contain other essential vitamins and nutrients.
- Zucchini which is also high in fibre
- Pumpkin: can be served boiled and mashed and is a great source of vitamin B6
- Citrus fruit: Oranges are always popular but don’t forget about grapefruit, lemons and limes. Grapefruit is great on its own or in a fruit salad and you can spruce up your glass of water with fresh lemon and lime.
- Cucumber: Throw some on a salad or eat in sticks as a snack.
- Cherries: Not only are they hydrating but they are high in fibre and a great source of antioxidants.
- Cooked oatmeal: Will also help to lower your cholesterol
- Apples: Are high in fibre and contain the antioxidant quercetin
- Pineapple: Hydrating but also low in calories which makes it a great snack or dessert
By adding more of these hydrating foods to your diet you won’t have to drink as much water but will still get all the healthy benefits of your 8-10 glasses a day.
