Staying healthy just got more delicious!
Every item on this page was chosen by a The Pioneer Woman editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
You've probably heard this one before: One of the keys to a healthy lifestyle is staying hydrated. Water intake is essential to keeping your bodily systems functioning properly. And while so often we question how much water we should drink everyday, gulping down those eight glasses isn't the only way to stay hydrated. In fact, many of the foods and other drinks we consume each day contribute to our overall intake. So in addition to filling up your favorite tumbler, consider adding the most hydrating foods to your diet.
It should be no surprise you'll find a lot of plants on this list, which thrive on water to survive as well. "I advise my patients to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables," notes Amy Bragagnini, M.S., R.D., C.S.O., and National Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. "These can supply a good amount of water towards our daily goals." Some of the hydrating foods are summer fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumbers, which are convenient during the hotter months of the year where dehydration is a more serious concern.
You'll might also be surprised to see dairy on this list, which not only has high water content but other nutrients that will further help boost your hydration with electrolytes. And while all these hydrating foods will not replace the need to drink water each day, they will certainly help supplement your intake. So go on, get snacking, and stay nice and cool!
Keep hydrated and satisfied with these ideas:
- A Guide to Summer Vegetables
- This Soup Is Chock-Full of Healthy Veggies
- Healthy Dinner Ideas for a Feel-Good Summer
1
Lettuce
The great thing about lettuce is that you not only can choose from endless salad recipes, but they also make excellent low-carb wraps for burgers and sandwiches, too. Every type of leafy green (including spinach!) has a high water content, but the highest are iceberg and romaine.
Water content: 96%
2
Cucumbers
Slice up a cucumber, add some to your water for a refreshing twist, and then add the rest to cucumber recipes for a satisfying, cool crunch. All varieties from English to Persian will work!
Water content: 96%
3
Celery
Chances are, there's celery in your crisper drawer. That's because it's used as a mirepoix base for so many tasty meals. Plus, it makes a nice crunchy snack on its own! You can also make an easy green juice for maximum hydration.
Water content: 95%
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
Tomatoes
Fact: there's nothing better than fresh tomatoes come summertime. With dozens of recipes, you'll never run out of ideas to add them to every meal. And it doesn't matter what types of tomatoes you prefer―they're all very high in water content.
Water content: 94%
5
Zucchini
Because of their high water content, zucchini and summer squash take on other flavors beautifully. Plus, they grow so plentiful in the summertime that you can make every recipe from zoodles to bread and never run out.
Water content: 94%
6
Watermelon
It shouldn't be too surprising that watermelon is one of the most hydrating fruits you can find, simply based on its name. And if you know how to pick out the best watermelon, you're in for a sweet treat full of antioxidants, too!
Water content: 92%
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
7
Bell Peppers
Did you know that bell peppers have the highest vitamin C content on this list? It's true! They're also high in fiber and other vitamins and minerals. Plus, they're surprisingly high in water content, too, so have fun with your hydration and cook them in all sorts of ways.
Water content: 92%
8
Broth
If you make broth from scratch, you know that the main ingredient is―you guessed it―water! And often lots of watery veggies are added for flavor, making it extra hydrating. The same goes for stock, so use either for all sorts of soups and stews.
Water content: 92%
9
Strawberries
Good news: All berry varieties are high in water content! But the most hydrating are strawberries. Strawberry recipes range from sweet to savory, and if you freeze them at their peak, you can enjoy them year round.
Water content: 91%
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
10
Grapefruit
Any variety of citrus will help keep you hydrated, but the very best option is grapefruit. You can find them all year long, but they are actually at their best as a winter fruit. Keep that in mind when you're making your healthy New Year's resolutions!
Water content: 91%
11
Skim Milk
Surprise! Lots of dairy products are high in water content. The highest is skim milk, which has a larger percentage by volume since it is lower in fat. The added protein and electrolytes make it an excellent source of hydration after a workout.
Water content: 91%
12
Cantaloupe
Wrap slices in prosciutto for an elegant appetizer or just eat this juicy melon as is for a snack. Ripe cantaloupe also makes an excellent base for a colorful fruit salad. And if you're wondering, its sister, the honeydew, has a similar water content.
Water content: 90%
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
13
Peaches
Stone fruit, including cherries, peaches, and nectarines, aren't as high in water content as berries, but they're pretty close! And when it's peach season, you really won't be able to resist their juicy, sweetness and versatility. Just make sure you pick the best ones!
Water content: 89%
