We are deep into the dog days of summer and depending on where you are, it’s one of the hottest on record. When taking advantage of summer sun and fun, it’s more important than ever to make sure you are staying hydrated because high temps and excessive sweating can cause us to lose water quickly. But did you know that you don’t necessarily have to drink your water to get the benefits? Eating your water is another way to make sure that the body is staying hydrated and even provides some other amazing benefits.  

 

Eating your water refers to eating water-rich foods like raw fruits and vegetables. And you’re most likely already doing it. While 80% of our daily water intake comes from drinking water, about 20% comes from the foods we eat. 

 

When you “eat” your water, the body processes it slower because the water is trapped in the structure of the food. The slow absorption of the water is a huge benefit because it means the water stays in our bodies longer. Did you know that if you drink your water too quickly or too much at one time, it can actually flush nutrients out of the body as your body will try to get rid of the excess fluid as soon as it can? (Which means lots of trips to the bathroom!) 

 

Another added bonus of eating your water is that you are getting the extra nutrients, vitamins and minerals and even fiber from the food that not only help the body function optimally, but they can also improve your health, even boosting the immune system. 

 

So what foods are perfect for “Eating Your Water”? Raw fruits and vegetables. (But don’t cook them – that reduces the water content!) It’s also important to remember that even with fruits and vegetables, it’s essential to eat a balance, paying attention to sugar and carb content. Cucumbers may be the king of the water-rich foods. They are 95% water and a good source of fiber and vitamins K & A. Plus one serving is only 8 calories! Watermelon on the other hand is a delicious snack for staying hydrated and a great source of antioxidants but is higher in sugar and carbs, so you don’t want to go overboard! 

 

Other water-rich foods to consider if you’re not already eating them:  

 

• Celery: Celery is made up of about 95% water and can be a crunchy and hydrating snack.
• Strawberries: Strawberries contain about 91% water and are a sweet and hydrating fruit option.
• Oranges: Oranges are composed of about 87% water and are a good source of vitamin C. But stick to the whole fruit and stay away from the juice which is full of added sugar. 
• Grapefruit: Grapefruit has a water content of about 88% and provides a refreshing tangy flavor.
• Spinach: Spinach is a hydrating leafy green with a water content of about 91%.

 

The amount of water we need varies based on factors like your age, gender, activity level, and climate. Newer studies have moved away from recommending exactly how much water you drink, instead saying that you should drink water when you are thirsty (unless of course you require more due to physical activities.) By doing this, you should be getting the hydration your body needs but adding in some of these water-rich foods to your diet is a good way to guarantee you are staying hydrated. 

 

And don’t forget your Glotrition! Glotrition’s Super Beauty Elixir is another great way to make sure you are getting the hydration you need. One packet added to 20 oz of water is a tasty, refreshing drink that not only helps to keep you hydrated, it also happens to treat your skin from the inside out!