Top 12 foods to keep you hydrated

Did you know that our bodies are made up of about 60% water? You may wonder, why do our bodies need so much water?

Water helps to:

• carry nutrients to and from baby
• remove waste from your body
• prevent constipation
• prevent dehydration, headaches, and muscle cramps, and keep you cool, especially in hot weather
• control swelling

Your health care provider may have told you to drink lots of fluids during your pregnancy and while breastfeeding. But you can also get some water by eating more of these foods:

• Vegetables and fruits
• Soups and broths
• Smoothies
• Yogurt

Including vegetables and fruits in every meal and snack is one tip that can help you stay hydrated.

Top 12 most hydrating vegetables and fruits to keep you hydrated:

1. Lettuce (95-96% water)
2. Celery (95% water)
3. Radish (95% water)
4. Cucumber (95% water)
5. Zucchini (95% water)
6. Tomato (95% water)
7. Bok choy (95% water)
8. Sweet peppers (92-93% water)
9. Watermelon (91% water)
10. Grapefruit (91% water)
11. Strawberries (91% water)
12. Cantaloupe (90% water)

(All values obtained from the Canadian Nutrient File; raw, per 100 g.)

Comment below and share your favourite food that keeps you hydrated!