Fruits that Keep You Hydrated

Soaring temperatures mean only one thing—you lose water and essential nutrients much faster than you do at any other time of the year. Effective hydration not only replenishes water but also ensures that your body maintains optimum electrolyte levels. Your taste buds also deserve a treat during the dry and exhausting heat of summer. Here are a few water-rich foods that can give you a boost and are pleasing to the palate.

Watermelon

92 percent water—the hydration you receive from a watermelon is nearly unmatched by other fruits. The juicy, red flesh of this popular summer fruit is also rich in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that is said to protect against several conditions such as asthma, heart disease and several types of cancer of the colon, lung, stomach, breast, cervix, and prostate. The fruit’s pleasantly light and sweet flavor is best enjoyed without any additives, although it does make a delicious juice.

Strawberry

This delectable bright red berry is approximately 91 percent water and is a rich source of folate and magnesium. What makes it stand out as a hydrating fruit is that it is the single most abundant source of vitamin C, making it the perfect summer substitute for chicken soup. Strawberries can also be used to add flavor to smoothies, gelato, and fruit juices.

Papaya

Plentifully available and mouth-wateringly sweet, the common papaya is nearly 88 percent water and is rich in fiber and low in calories. Papayas are deceptively light, giving you the feeling of having eaten a full meal without adding on the calories.

Pineapple

Pineapples are approximately 87 percent water and contain the powerful anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain that has been proven to combat inflammation of injured sinuses and nasal passages. Pineapples are also loved for their tangy citrus taste and are also a rich source of vitamin C and fiber.

Grapefruit

No other fruit is as much your friend as the grapefruit, especially if you are on a diet. Composed of 91 percent water, this visually appealing fruit contains compounds that regulate insulin and appetite, promoting healthy eating and weight loss.

Cucumber

Technically a fruit, cucumbers are the undisputed champion when it comes to keeping your body hydrated. They are a ready source of vitamin C and the wonder organic compound, caffeic acid—a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Containing over 95 percent water, a single serving of cucumber slices offers as nearly as much hydration and even more fiber than a glass of water. Cucumbers are versatile and can be eaten raw, or added to salads, soups, and savory dishes.