Our body is around 70% water. Water is crucial to our health and our very existence, but so many of us ignore its importance. It can be hard to know when your body needs water unless you know what signs to look for. These can include fatigue and headache. Dehydration can also weaken your immune system. Your thirst is a sign that you are already dehydrated, and you need water.
My first suggestion is to try drinking as much water as you can every day. Like marine life and plants, our bodies need water, too. Water supports good health, gives us a healthy glow, and keeps us hydrated. Often, people who want to lose weight completely ignore the importance of water intake, which is one of the more important factors to consider. Inadequate amounts of water leave our cells jammed, resulting in kidney and bladder infections and mood swings. If you enjoy your coffee or daily cocktail, drink at least half your body’s weight in ounces per day.
Establish A Habit
When you wake up in the morning, the first thing you should do is drink a lot of water (room temperature), such as a glass of warm water with a few drops of lemon juice. This will help eliminate impurities from your blood and help your organs function efficiently.
But, if you just aren’t a fan of water, here are some fruits and vegetables that can help you make up the difference.
- Cucumber
Cucumbers are 95% water, making them one of the top solid foods with the most amount of water. They are full of Vitamin E and you can enjoy them in salads or smoothies.
- Coconut Water
Coconut water is multipurpose. In addition to being one of the best sources for rehydration, it can lower blood pressure, support the heart, prevent headaches and mood swings, and prevent aging.
- Watermelon Juice
This fruit is 92% water; I call it the king of fruits because of this extremely high water content. Watermelon juice is simple and fast to prepare and contains vitamins and fluids that help stave off or reverse dehydration.
- Fresh Juices
Fresh juices like strawberry juice, apple juice, and lemon juice contain high amounts of water in addition to the water content of the fruits themselves. This keeps you hydrated and supports weight loss because the water and natural calories of the fruit keep you feeling fuller longer, and less likely to indulge in unhealthy foods. Water also helps stimulate bodily functions like metabolism, elimination, and nutrient absorption, all critical processes for healthy weight management.
- Beetroot
Beetroot is known as a superfood. It helps defend against kidney infections and is rich in minerals and vitamins.
- Yellow Melon
Just like its relative, watermelon, the yellow melon has high water content. Yellow melon is excellent for relieving urinary or kidney pains.
Make a point to drink more water or hydrating drinks. Try to drink it on a schedule, and drink it before you get thirsty. A well-hydrated body functions like a well-oiled machine.
Get Your Priorities In Order
One of the most common mistakes people make is to underestimate the importance of hydration. At the end of the day, we are made up of more than half of water. Yet so many of us forget that we need to constantly replenish the water within our bodies. While there are a number of different ways we can do this one of the quickest and most effective ways is by drinking water and other hydrating beverages. However, more often than not, people forget (for those of you who still don’t love the taste of water) that there are ways to eat your water too! Now, this doesn’t mean you are going to live off of watermelon alone. Although, watermelon is great for hydration because it also aids in electrolyte imbalances.
Eat Your Water!
If you are looking to eat your way to proper hydration you will need to fill your plate with tons of fresh fruits and vegetables. As an added bonus, your skin and hair will reap the added benefits from naturally stocking up on your vitamins and minerals. The goal is to reach for foods that are high in water content such as cucumbers, berries, apples, melons, celery, stone fruits (peaches, plums, apricots, etc.), pears, avocados, lettuce, and more! Some of these foods come with added benefits for electrolyte balancing like watermelon such as celery. Bear in mind, however, that too much celery or celery juice can affect your calcium ion channels (which results in diarrhea). While there are a number of individuals who like to remove the middleman and jump straight to juicing there are a number of reasons to avoid this route.
Is The Juice Worth The Squeeze?
Here’s the thing, juices tend to be high in sugars and calories. You want to have all the pulp and fiber that holds the majority of the plant’s nutrients. When you stick to juice-only solutions you actually end up creating a number of additional issues while only putting a patch on others. Now, I am not saying you can never enjoy a glass of your favorite fruit or vegetable juice. I am merely saying that you need to use moderation when consuming juice beverages. Personally, I love juice and I love to make combinations that can provide me with a variety of solutions or benefits. However, I use those same foods in solid forms to reach my goals as well. This helps keep me full longer and at a far less calorie count. Here is a great recipe to help you eat your way to better hydration!
Zucchini Walnut Salad
Gluten Free Vegan Serves 6-8
- 3 Yellow Zucchinis Ribboned
- 50ml Aged Balsamic Vinegar
- 3 Green Zucchinis Ribboned
- 150ml Avocado Oil
- Juice of 1 Lemon
- 2 Cups Arugula
- ½ Cup Walnuts Toasted and Roughly Chopped
- 1 Cup Vegan Parmesan
Directions:
Slice all zucchinis lengthwise using a vegetable peeler or vegetable pasta maker. The goal is long straight thin ribbons. Place zucchini in a strainer over a bowl, season with sea salt, let sit for 7 minutes to extract excess water. Pat dry on a kitchen towel or paper. To make dressing pour vinegar, oil, lemon, salt, and pepper. Pile zucchini and arugula onto individual plates. Sprinkle nuts and parmesan over the top and drizzle dressing over the top.
Need A Hand?
A happy and healthy life is closer than you may think. Our health is something that we all have to deal with daily, and when we don’t feel our best, it shows. If you are tired of just making it through your day then you NEED to start investing in your health today! You are not alone on this journey. If you ever need any help I am always here to do just that. Even if it is something as small as just acting as a sounding board. Do you have any questions or concerns I can help you with? Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] or you can even book a one-on-one call with me. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to tons of free goodies and check back daily for more great recipes and information!