The surprising water-rich foods that can help keep you hydrated

While drinking water is very important, it turns out you can also stay hydrated through eating the right food. So we chatted with Sydney-based nutritionist and naturopath Lauren Booth to find out which water-rich foods you should be reaching for.

Celery

At 95 per cent water content, munching on a few celery sticks is nearly as thirst-quenching as a glass of water. It also contains potassium, an essential electrolyte that modulates your hydration levels, Lauren explains.

“By eating celery, you get the dual action of increased water intake, as well as insurance that you absorb it with potassium’s help,” she says.

Fresh celery is also an excellent source of vitamin K, which helps increase bone mass by promoting osteopathic activity in the bones.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are another healthy and hydrating food to add in your diet. “Cucumbers are 95 per cent water – this makes them supremely hydrating,” Lauren says.

And compared to other water-rich vegetables, cucumbers are one of the lowest in calories. 

“Not only is it one of the most hydrating foods you can eat, it also has the ability to enhance detoxification, which makes it a great inclusion for a spring and summer detox!” She adds.

Cauliflower 

“This cruciferous vegetable packs a surprising punch at 92 per cent water weight,” Lauren says. “It also contains Sulphorafane, an incredible nutrient which has been shown to reduce the rate at which cancer cells grow and spread.”

She also recommends using it as an alternative to white rice as it’s a lot lower in calories. All you need to do is grate the cauliflower florets until the texture resembles rice. Cook on medium heat for five minutes, it’s that easy!

Read more: Healthy alternatives to white rice that taste just as good

Zucchini

Zucchini is another healthy and hydrating food to add in your diet, at 94 per cent water content, Lauren explains. It also contains two essential phytochemicals for eye and vision protection – lutein and zeaxanthin.

“This is another weight-loss wonder food for those who want a low-carb alternative to pasta or noodles (use a spiralizer to make your zucchini the right shape for this),” she adds.

And now is a great time to stock up on zucchini. After a period of unpredictable supply, zucchinis are back to great buying and the quality is fantastic.

Read more: August best buys: Blueberries are out but beans and strawberries are in

Watermelon

“It’s in the name, so it’s not a shock to find that watermelon is 91 per cent water,” she explains.

Watermelon also contains lycopene, a cancer-fighting antioxidant found in red fruits and vegetables. Try adding it into your diet as a refreshing snack or on its own or in a delicious summer salad.

Did you know this? How do you stay hydrated?