New Delhi: As the mercury keeps rising across the country, we need to beware of dehydration which may happen due to insufficient water intake, excessive sweating, or staying under the sun for long. Some signs of dehydration include muscle cramps, dizziness and fatigue and therefore staying hydrated becomes all the more essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
While drinking water is of utmost importance, there is no one-size-fits all formula for daily water intake. However, one should have atleast 2.5 to 3 liters of water everyday. Besides water there are many foods that can also contribute to hydration. By including these hydrating foods into our diet, we can effectively supplement our fluid intake and stay fresh throughout the day.
In an interaction with News9Live. Dr. Meghana Pasi, Head, MyThali, Arogya World, listed the best foods and drinks that can help one keep dehydration at bay.
Here are some foods that can help in keeping our body hydrated:
Coconut Water: It is a natural energy drink with vitamins and minerals in their natural form which replenishes the body with the nutrients lost due to sweating and dehydration. It also has cooling properties that can help fight against the hot weather.
Curd and Buttermilk: These are packed with calcium, protein and contain probiotics that keep our digestive system running smoothly especially during summers when our system tends to slack.
Watermelon: This seasonal fruit contains almost 92% water and helps in fulfilling our body’s water requirement. Loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, watermelon also helps in protecting skin cells from sun damage. Further, the high-water content keeps us full for long and can help in weight loss.
Salads: These are the healthiest options one can go for during summers to avoid heavy meals. Salads are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber and water which help in mending dry skin by strengthening the skin’s defences against the Sun. You can add different types of veggies, fruits, nuts and sprouts to your salad to give it a twist everyday.
Cucumber: Eating cucumber in summer helps in keeping constipation at bay. It is loaded with fibre and very high in water. So, have this crunchier food and stay cool during the hot weather.
Iced Tea, lemonade: Tea is rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants and lemonade contains vitamin C. Both help in cooling and hydrating our body. Add a pinch of rock salt, cumin powder and mint to enhance the flavours.
While you add these fruits and veggies to your diet to cool you down, you also need to limit caffeine. Caffeine is a diuretic and will cause dehydration. Hence, limit the intake of tea or coffee during summers.
While drinking water is of utmost importance, there is no one-size-fits all formula for daily water intake. However, one should have atleast 2.5 to 3 liters of water everyday. Besides water there are many foods that can also contribute to hydration. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
