We often mistakenly associate hydration with drinking water or other fluids, but the truth is that there are other foods that keep us hydrated. This is the case with watermelon, which is rich in water and electrolytes, capable of hydrating the body just like drinking water. On top of that, it provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help maintain cardiovascular health, muscles, and skin. Its composition is 92% water, making it one of the most hydrating foods.
It also provides nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A. However, one of its most notable compounds is citrulline, which improves blood flow and reduces muscle soreness after exercise. Lycopene, an antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health and gives watermelon its red color, is also worth mentioning. There are also other fruits, with a water content of over 85%, that provide electrolytes, fiber, and antioxidants, such as cucumber, tomato, strawberries, melon, peach, and pineapple.
Watermelon
Although we usually associate hydration with the consumption of liquids, especially water, the truth is that one of the most efficient ways to stay hydrated is through certain types of fruit. The main one is undoubtedly watermelon, with 92% water, making it one of the most hydrating foods. However, its benefits go far beyond hydration, as it provides nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A, which promote muscle function and fluid balance. According to nutrition experts, the most interesting compound in watermelon is citrulline, an amino acid capable of improving blood flow and reducing muscle pain after exercise.
They also mention lycopene, an antioxidant that can improve cardiovascular health and is responsible for giving watermelon its red color. The high water content of this type of fruit helps replace fluids lost through sweat and supports natural cooling of the body. It is also rich in electrolytes, which can hydrate the body just as effectively as drinking water. A piece of watermelon has less than 100 calories and can provide natural sugars and fibers that, unlike sugary drinks, nourish as well as hydrate. It can be consumed in different ways, whether fresh, in smoothies, frozen, or even by adding cubes to water to give a subtle flavor for those who have trouble drinking water throughout the day.
More hydrating fruits
There are many other fruits whose water content is over 85%, and that also provide fiber, antioxidants, and electrolytes to the human body. Some of them are:
- Cucumber. Made up of 96% water, it also provides vitamin K, magnesium, and potassium.
- Tomato. Made up of 94% water, it provides vitamin C and lycopene.
- Strawberry. Made up of 92% water, it is low in calories and provides vitamin C and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
- Melon. Made up of 90% water, it contains beta-carotene and vitamin A.
- Peach. Made up of 88% water, it provides potassium and vitamin C.
- Pineapple. Made up of 87% water, it contains vitamin B6, copper, and bromelain, an enzyme that reduces inflammation and improves digestion.
Eating this variety of fruit is a good way to stay hydrated, in addition to drinking water, while also receiving numerous nutrients, minerals, and electrolytes that are beneficial for human health.