WOAH! What a difference Miami Summer is compared to NorCal Summer! Most days CJ and I cannot be outside for longer than 30 minutes without hydrating and calming rosy cheeks. I wrote a few weeks back abut the signs of heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration and I wanted to piggy back on that post and concentrate solely on dehydration. Many of of struggle with water intake, especially during the summer months. According to this article from Baptist Health South Florida, mild dehydration can lead to anything from fatigue, poor concentration and sleep issues to headaches, balance issues, constipation, trouble concentrating and long-term complications contribute to kidney stones and other issues.
A few years ago, I got to visit the Grow2Heal Organic Garden at Baptist Homestead Hospital. Thi Squire, manger of the Grow2Heal Garden says: “People assume that in order to stay hydrated they have to drink a beverage, but there are plenty of other sources of hydration.People may not think, ‘Oh, I’m thirsty — how about a nice, juicy tangerine or a slice of watermelon?’ ”
But, guess what? Not only are fruits and veggies extremely hydrating. They also provide our bodies with fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
There is no wonder that during summer your body craves light and hydrating foods like Watermelon and cucumbers. For those of you that struggle to get your 8 cups/day in, I wanted to share this article and water filled foods you can eat NOW to remain hydrated.
Watermelon: Is it summer without watermelon? I think not! Also 90% water, there are tons of vitamins and minerals such as A, B6 and C, antioxidants and lycopene which has been linked to cardiac health and also found in warm tomatoes. I love watermelon as a post-workout pick me up!
Cantaloupe: Super yummy, 90% water and hydrating! My son LOVES to eat a whole slice. Its a fantastic post dinner treat.
Celery:95% fiber and filled with water, celery has tons of benefits! It is also a great vehicle for dips or peanut butter.
Cauliflower:Cauliflower is actually 92% water, but also chock full of fiber! So its great for feeling full and sweeping the digestive tract.
Cucumbers: Hydration and chock full of fiber, potassium, vitamin K and folate (Great for pregnancy)! Try to eat them whole. The skin and seeds are the most nutrient dense part!
Strawberries: Is there anything better than a summer berry? I think not! They are the perfect dessert and 91% water. They are also packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Fun fact: When you consume plant based iron, consume with a Vitamin C source like strawberries so that the iron is more bioavailable and useful for the body!
Tomatoes: According to this article, tomatoes are actually 90% water & much lower in sugar than say, grapes! I love orange grape tomatoes. They’re a great snack, less acidic and hydrating.
There is still time to stock up at your farm stand or your local grocery! Most of the items here at their peak which means high in flavor and low in price!
Stay cool and remain hydrated!