Nutritionists Recommend Water-Rich Foods to Stay Hydrated in Summer

Staying adequately hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy organ function, and nutritionists say foods with high water content can supplement daily fluid intake while providing vitamins, minerals and fiber. Cucumber tops the list at about 96 percent water, offering folic acid, calcium, polyphenols, flavonoids, potassium, magnesium and sodium. Tomatoes contain roughly 94 percent water and provide vitamins A, K and C, along with potassium, magnesium and the antioxidant lycopene. Strawberries and watermelon each contain around 92 percent water. Strawberries have a lower impact on blood sugar and supply vitamin C, folic acid, manganese, fiber and antioxidant anthocyanins. Watermelon contains fiber, vitamin A, potassium, lycopene and citrulline. Oranges and melon both have water content near 90 percent. Oranges provide vitamins C and A, fiber and anti-inflammatory polyphenols, though some drug interactions are possible. Melon is noted as easy to digest. Peaches, at about 88 percent water, round out the list and can be added to salads or eaten as a snack.