Yesterday was World Water Day, a reminder that while drinking at least eight glasses of water is not always possible, it sure is necessary. Some of us are busy running around all day. Some of us barely find the time to look up from our screens. And some of us are just forgetful. In all of this, getting those eight glasses of water down gets hard, doesn't it? What if the food that you ate could help you fill your daily quota of aqua? Would that help?
There are some foods that are super hydrating and ensure that you get your much needed dose of H20. Roughly 20% of our daily water intake comes from solid foods; mostly, fruits and vegetables. These foods are at least 90% water by weight. So if not from the bottle lying on your desk all day, you can at least make sure that your body is getting the water it needs from somewhere.
Water contains zero calories and is low in sodium. Not only does water help eliminate toxins through urination, carry nutrients to cells and prevent dehydration; it is also essential for weight loss and clear skin. Water helps you curb all your untimely cravings and helps metabolize and burn fat. That's something we all want, don't we? Well, then there's your incentive to be consuming more water and foods that hydrate.
Not only do these fruits and vegetables contain ample water, they have plenty of other nutrients too.
So go stock up your kitchens and fridges - and make sure to include these in your diet.
1. Watermelon
This yummy, juicy fruit lets it's name talk for itself. With over 90% water weight, just like all the other foods on this list, it will keep you hydrated through all the rough, hot months. Plus, with it's bright colour, it makes for a great Instagram picture too.
2. Cucumber
That tasteless kheera that your mum loves to add in your salad is actually a must for those looking for some additional vitamins and fiber. If you want to clear out that digestive system and consequently also your skin, make sure you pack some for the road. Even if you're leaving in a hurry.
3. Tomatoes
Fruit or vegetable? This debate has carried on too long. Either way, what we can tell you is that they're great for you. Along with enhancing the flavour of your food, tomatoes are super rich in antioxidants and help prevent many diseases.
4. Celery
You've probably heard that celery has negative calories; therefore making you burn extra calories when consumed. While that may not be a 100% true, it is true that celery provides a great amount of dietary fiber that boosts digestion and weight loss. The high percentage of water and electrolytes can help prevent dehydration and also reduce bloating.
5. Strawberry
Is there anyone who doesn't love strawberries? We think not. Other than tasting great in tarts, cakes and even just with yogurt for breakfast, strawberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. They're also known to help prevent wrinkles. Need we say more?
6. Iceberg Lettuce
If you love your caesar salad as much as us, our love for iceberg lettuce may be at par. Yes, it tastes great in salads (and is probably the yummiest in the lettuce family), but iceberg lettuce is also very low in sodium, saturated fat and cholesterol. It mainly contains dietary fiber and water. So you're consuming next to no calories and still curbing your appetite. Win-win.
7. Broccoli
A dish of broccoli and chicken is the answer to every weight loss question. Don't worry, we're not going to ask you to resort to eating that everyday. While broccoli is low in calories, it is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals - and contains plenty of fiber and water. It's also a great vegetarian source of protein. So while it may not be your preferred choice on a daily basis, adding it to your diet could do you no harm.
Remember, drinking your water is still super important, though. Don't skip that.
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