Are you getting enough fluids in?

Many times, I have written about the importance of drinking enough water.  However, it doesn’t mean that drinking water is the only way to stay hydrated.  Black coffee and tea, without sugar, is something else you can drink.  Many fruits and vegetables, are loaded with fluids; a lovely “variation” to water! 

Did you know that most foods contain water?  About 20% of your hydration comes from certain foods.  Your body is made up of about 70% fluid and your brain about 80%.  Staying hydrated is important, as it plays a role in keeping your brain healthy, but also your internal organs, your skin and your whole body.  When you are thirsty, you are already busy dehydrating.  When you are in the sun (or in aircon or central heating for many hours), it is important to make sure to take in enough fluids to stay hydrated.

Some of the best thirst quenchers to add to your diet, are:  Cucumbers:  contain 95% water; Tomatoes:  contain 95% water; Celery:  contain 95% water; Romaine lettuce:  95% water; Broth-based soup:  92% water; Watermelon:  92% water; Peaches:  89% water; Yoghurt:  85% water.

The above-list is but the tip of the ice berg.  Most fruits and vegetables contain fluids.  Eating a variety and making sure to add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your diet, will be more than enough.  However, drinking fluids, like water, is still important and should not be underestimated.  Bottled, still water is also good and, adding a few slices of lemon, strawberry or oranges, to water, will enhance the flavour.  Water is a source of life.  All living beings need water.  It is said that you can go without food for a number of days, but only survive, without water, for a few hours.

During the warm, summer months, fruits and salads are a great way to up your fluid intake. Cooldrinks, with added sugars and other substances, doesn’t count. Rather opt for homemade, flavoured water, tea and/or coffee, or just plain water. During winter, you can enjoy soups, broths and warm drinks, like tea and coffee. Drinking milk is also fine; unless you don’t like it.

Everyone, from animals, to plants, to humans, need water to live and thrive.  Water is the life force that not only protects an unborn baby, but also life on earth.  Instinctively, both animals and humans, are drawn to water.  From taking a shower, a bath, going for a swim and drinking water, everyone needs water.  Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, are a great way to up your fluid intake. 

Listening to your body, and watching out for signals (for example a dry skin and mouth), is key to make sure that your fluid intake is enough.  Whether it is 6 – 8 glasses per day, or eating plenty of fruits and vegetables as well, is up to each person.  Most importantly, is to make sure that you don’t dehydrate.