10 Hydrating Foods to Beat the Summer Heat
BY JUDITH DELIS, ADMINISTRATOR, SEMINOLE SHORES LIVING CENTER, NORTON SHORES
Did you know that you don’t have to just drink water to stay hydrated? Although drinking water is important, it’s not your only option. During the summer, plenty of different foods can help you beat the heat.
10 Foods That Help Keep You Hydrated
Watermelon. For a hydrating summer treat, there’s nothing better than watermelon, which is more than 90% water. It’s also low in fat and calories and contains a decent amount of vitamin C. Keep a bowl in your fridge or take some to the park or the beach to stay hydrated.
Cucumber. At 96% water, cucumber is one of the most hydrating vegetables available. Cheap and plentiful in summer, it’s great to consume with dips or in salads to increase your water intake.
Celery. The next time you crave something crunchy, consider celery sticks over potato chips. Not only is it lower in fat and calories, but celery will also help keep you hydrated better than saltier snacks. It’s also full of nutrients like vitamin K, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Lettuce. Whether used in salads or added to sandwiches, adding more lettuce to your diet can be refreshing and hydrating. The more color, the better: choose lettuce with dark green leaves to get more nutrients.
Peaches. A ripe, juicy peach in the summer can satisfy your sweet tooth and your thirst. Besides being full of water and low in fat, peaches are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Choose fresh peaches over the sugary, canned option.
Zucchini. Vegetable gardens overflow with zucchini in the summertime, making it a good option for getting more water in to your diet. Since cooking can remove a lot of the vegetable’s water content, consider consuming it raw, such as spiralized into noodle shapes.
Yogurt. Not only does yogurt contain a significant amount of water, but it is packed with protein, vitamin D, calcium, and gut-healthy cultures. Rather than buying yogurt cups packed with sugar and other additives, consider buying plain, low-fat yogurt and adding your own choice of fruit and other flavorings.
Tomatoes. Did you know that one medium tomato provides about a half cup of water? Tomatoes also contain fiber, antioxidants, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Add them to soups, salads, or salsas.
Soup. While it may not be the first choice for a hot summer day, soup is another easy way to get more water. Opt for broth- and vegetable-based soups rather than rich, cream-based varieties. A cup of soup with a salad or small sandwich makes for an easy, light lunch.
Cottage Cheese. If you need a low-fat protein choice that also increases your fluid intake, cottage cheese is another good option. Choose a low-fat variety and mix in some fruit for added nutrients and flavors.
Health and Nutrition for Senior Loved Ones. Seminole Shores Assisted Living, a Heritage Senior Community, provides healthy, balanced meal options to help improve and maintain quality of life for residents. Contact us today to learn more about our assisted living and memory care options.
Seminole Shores Assisted Living Center, located in Norton Shores, Michigan, gives seniors the opportunity to be independent while knowing that assistance is available to serve them whenever they need it. The center offers housekeeping, laundry, medication management, 24 hour care, three home-cooked meals a day and a full activity and event program. A pet-friendly community, Seminole Shores Assisted Living Center is owned and operated by Heritage Property Management Inc., located in Grand Haven, Michigan. Heritage Property Management Inc. is a family-owned company that operates nine assisted living homes and five independent living homes across the state of Michigan. Learn more at seminoleshoresalc.com and call (231) 780-2944 for a tour.
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