We’re seeing record-high temperatures for fall, which means that staying hydrated is more important than ever. After all, one-third of the human body is composed of water—and while we can survive a month without food, going without water is lethal after just four days.
Water is necessary for almost every function of our body—and while the 8 glasses a day rule may be a “quasi-fact” according to Dr. Michael Hartman, PhD, there are guidelines: about 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 cups for men. If you’re not hitting these goals, you may be dehydrated, which leads to fatigue and headaches, low blood pressure, muscle cramps and skin problems, and much more.
But it’s not only beverages like water that can help with hydration. Your diet can be a source of water, too. Here are 10 foods to help with your water intake—because foods that are rich in water can help fight dehydration.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers top the list of super-hydrating foods. Made of 96% water, cucumbers are a low-calorie, high-fiber food that is also filled with vitamin C, the antioxidants flavonoids and tannins. Additionally, a single medium-sized cucumber meets about half your daily goal for vitamin K.
Lettuce
No filler food here! This humble vegetable actually has surprising benefits. Made of 96% water, it’s also a fantastic source of fiber (the darker the color leaf, the better for you) along with vitamins C and A to support healthy skin and eyes.
Tomatoes
Whether small or giant, from beefsteak or San Marzano, this summer fruit provides plenty of hydration. Tomatoes contain 95% water and are filled with lycopene and beta-carotene antioxidants that help to lower cancer risk, strengthen bones, and preserve skin.
Radishes
Typically forgotten, the humble and simple radish has 95% water. They are also a mini-superfood, fantastic for detoxifying the body, as well as filled with vitamin C and potassium to help with heart health.
Celery
Celery juice is a staple in wellness routines for a reason: the vegetable is not only made of 95% water, but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help cleanse and fight inflammation in the body.
Zucchini
Steamed, baked, or raw: zucchini is made up of 93% water, along with vitamins A, E, and C, skin-beautifying antioxidants that cooking at high temperatures can neutralize.
Watermelon
It’s a summer staple for a reason. Watermelon is made up of 92% water, as well as rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium.
Strawberries
A true summer treat, strawberries are incredibly thirst-quenching: 91% of their weight comes from water itself. In addition, this healthy food is a source of antioxidant lycopene, which protects the skin from UV rays, and vitamin C, which stimulates collagen.
Cantaloupe
The cantaloupe melon contains 90% water. In addition, this fragrant fruit is rich in vitamin A, which is vital, especially in summer, for healthy skin.
Peaches
This summer fruit is a combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants (such as beta-carotene and vitamin C, which protect against UV rays)—along with 88% water.
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