There’s a lot of conflicting information in the health and science communities about how much water we need to drink each day to maintain optimum health. Some experts recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water per day while others say you may need more or less than that depending on your size, age and activity level.
But no matter how often the current advice changes, there’s no denying the fact that drinking adequate water isn’t an easy task for many of us (myself included). I am not particularly fond of water and have always struggled to drink a decent amount for my body’s needs. Fortunately, I recently discovered that there are ways I can eat my water so I don’t have to drink as much!
I know, it sounds strange to eat your water, but it can be done! Many foods are chock-full of water that counts toward your overall fluid intake goal. Here are some of my favorite suggestions for “eating” your water.
Eat More Soup
Soup is a great food to consume if you struggle to drink enough water each day. Whether you’re eating water-based or broth-based soup, you’re giving your body plenty of added fluids to support your hydration needs.
I like to make big batches of soup and then freeze whatever I don’t want to eat right away. I’ve used muffin pans to freeze soup in single-serving sizes. When I’m feeling a little parched and know I need to boost my fluid intake for the day, I warm up a serving of soup and enjoy it with lunch or dinner.
Eat the Right Veggies
All vegetables contain water, but some types contain more water than others. If you’re feeling parched and want to quickly improve your hydration levels, choose from the following list of water-dense vegetables.
- Cucumbers
- Celery
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes (technically a fruit, but most people consider it to be a vegetable)
- Summer squash
- Jicama
- Zucchini
- Broccoli
These are all very hydrating vegetables that can contribute to your daily fluid intake. They’re also bursting with vitamins and minerals that can boost your overall health and help your body’s various systems function optimally.
Indulge in Fruit
If eating fruit feels like a guilty pleasure, it’s time to change your way of thinking. Different varieties of fruit have impressive nutrient profiles. Plus, many of them are composed of around 90% water! Here are some of the best fruit choices to indulge in if your primary goal is to boost your hydration.
- Watermelon
- Grapefruit
- Honeydew melon or cantaloupe
- Strawberries
- Peaches
- Raspberries
- Oranges
- Pineapple
- Apricots
One of the best things about the above list of hydrating fruits is that they are all mouthwateringly delicious. You shouldn’t have any problem adding some of them to your daily routine—especially if you’re doing it for the sake of your health!
Try Hydrating Smoothies
Depending on how thick you like your smoothies, you may drink them instead of eating them. Personally, I like to load my smoothies up with ice so they’re nice and thick and must be eaten with a spoon. But regardless of how thick or thin your smoothies are, there is no doubt they’re extremely hydrating.
Pack your smoothies with raw veggies, fresh fruit, and water or plant-based milk for a guilt-free treat that will help you avoid dehydration throughout the day.
Avoid Dehydrating Foods
While you’re on your quest to achieve greater dehydration through the foods you eat, be sure to avoid dietary habits that can dehydrate you, such as:
- Eating too much protein
- Consuming too much alcohol
- Indulging in sugary drinks
- Eating a high-salt diet
- Drinking caffeinated beverages such as sodas and coffee
These dietary habits can all lead to dehydration and have a negative impact on your overall health. Trade dehydrating foods for hydrating options and you’ll feel the difference!