Sometimes, the “plain” taste of water makes it a challenge to keep on drinking at least eight glasses per day. Unless mixed with something else, it doesn’t have a certain taste that leaves you hooked nor does it look as “exciting” as other beverages. But since it’s summer season once again, H2O intake is a must.
However, staying hydrated this summer can go beyond just drinking water. Fruits that have high water content can be alternatives for when you’re craving some flavor while replenishing fluids in your body. Here are some of the most widely available in the market.
Watermelon
As it has the highest water content, watermelons are known as the “summer superfruit.” Aside from being made up of 92 percent of water, it is also high in vitamins A and C, fiber and magnesium—which can help boost your energy.
Pineapple
If pineapples don’t remind you of beaches, swimming pools or the tropical season in general, then we don’t know what else will. This sweet fruit is also among the many produce items you can find being sold on roadsides during summer. As another poster fruit for the season, pineapple contains 86 percent of water which makes it very refreshing.
Strawberries
All berries are actually great for hydration, but strawberries are the easiest to find in local markets. Moreover, it contains the most water with a percentage of 91 percent compared to blueberries and raspberries which are both around 85 percent.
Star fruit
Balimbing, as it is commonly known in the country, is among the underrated gems of the summer season. Made up of 91.4 percent water, this fruit has a juicy texture comparable to pineapple. A word of caution though: people with kidney problems are not advised to eat star fruit because of its high levels of oxalic acid.
Melon
Melons are an absolute treat to those who love sweets, and its 90 percent water content makes it a double dose of delight for those looking for a flavorful way to quench their thirst. What’s more is that a one-cup serving of melon contains approximately the same amount of potassium, which helps restore and maintain the body’s fluid levels, as a medium-sized banana.
Papaya
Did you know that part of the reason why papaya can give you glowing skin is its high water content? Yes, papaya keeps your skin hydrated with the 88 percent water that it contains, which helps in the skin’s rejuvenation process. Aside from this benefit, this tropical fruit’s high water content also enables it to help improve digestion by reducing bloating and easing constipation.
Apple
Although they are available all year round, apples are juicy enough to be a good way to hydrate during summer. Aside from being made up of approximately 86 percent water, it’s also perfect for those looking for a snack with no throw-away packaging since you can eat its skin, making it good not just for you but for the environment as well.
Mango
Mango, which is more or less Filipinos’ favorite fruit, is most abundant during the summer. Without having to turn it into shake or juice, this fruit can keep you refreshed with its 83 percent water content alone which adds to its many benefits alongside high levels of vitamin C and fiber. It does contain more sugar than other fruits though, which is why you should eat it moderately.
[READ: 5 creative ways to stay hydrated all summer long]
Although all of these fruits can keep you refreshed this summer, nothing still beats drinking water in keeping you hydrated, regulating your temperature and making up for lost fluids in your body, of course. If you’re not in the mood for a simple glass of water, you can also infuse slices of fruit in it or opt to go for sparkling or fizzy water which will still ensure your hydration fix.
Header photo by Juja Han on Unsplash
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Writer: YANN MAGCAMIT
