Don’t Wait, Hydrate!
By Denise Gaudette, Cooking Matters Manager
Water comprises 60% of your body weight and plays a vital role in the function of your body. Water regulates body temperature, moves nutrients throughout your body, protects your organs, lubricates your joints, and removes waste through urine.
Avoid waiting until you are thirsty to hydrate, sip on fluids throughout the day. There are several ways to stay hydrated. A few tips include:
- Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day.
- Add fruits and/or vegetables to your water for flavor.
- Dilute 100% juice with water (1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup juice).
- Set an alarm as a reminder to sip fluids throughout the day.
Other Beverages to help you stay hydrated include:
- 100% juice
- Milk
- Seltzer water
- Smoothies
*Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, teas, and colas, are not recommended for optimal hydration. These fluids tend to pull water from the body and promote dehydration.
Finally, many fruits and vegetables contain a significant amount of water which can also help to keep you hydrated. See list below.
- Water
- Fat-free milk
- Soup
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
- Lettuce
- Cabbage
- Celery
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- 100% Fruit Juice
- Yogurt
- Apples
- Oranges
- Grapes
- Carrots
- Shrimp
- Bananas
- Corn
- Potatoes
- Avocados
- Cottage Cheese