Here in Maricopa County, Arizona, it’s that time of year again when we can’t wait for the weather to cool off. Having weeks on end of temperatures that exceed 100 degrees is simply exhausting. Swimming pools are even too hot, and our bodies seem to crave a soak in fresh water. It’s a natural impulse, as our bodies very much want to cool off and stay hydrated. After all, our systems require water to function properly! In fact, we need water for everything – to keep our joints lubricated, deliver nutrients to our cells, to flush out inflammation, to regulate our body temperature, and our immune system (which is very important right now during Covid-19) requires water to prevent infections. Our heart also needs water simply to keep beating, and if you’ve been prone to neck pain or back pain, you probably already know that water is essential to prevent flare-ups of your symptoms.
Many people underestimate the amount of water that they need, as they do not realize that the human body loses water even while at rest. Going to the restroom, sweating, and breathing all result in water loss. Therefore, even if you spend most of your time indoors in the air conditioning, you are still losing water. When you go outside into the extreme summer temperatures, you are losing even more water than normal. The good news is that water can be easily replenished. The challenge for many people is that they are constantly dealing with symptoms and pain flare-ups associated with dehydration, as they are never actually taking in enough water – especially during these hot summer months!
So, how do you stay hydrated – consistently, day after day, and not just when you think about carrying around water? Well, the easiest way is to prevent dehydration is to combine your consumption of water and other clear liquids with hydrating produce. Not only will many fruits and vegetables help you stay well-hydrated, they will also keep your body well-nourished, which will make you better able to tolerate extremely hot temperatures. Already considering which types of produce to select for optimal hydration? Fortunately, there are many flavorful options. Some of the best ones include the following…
Watermelon is a top choice, as it contains more than a whopping 90% of water. Watermelon also contains lycopene, powerful antioxidants, and Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C!
Cantaloupe is also about 90% water. It is high in potassium, beta carotene, folate, fiber, and contains Vitamin A & Vitamin C.
Tomatoes are another great hydrating option, containing about 93% water. Surprisingly, tomatoes generally contain more water than watermelon! They also contain cancer fighting phytochemicals and are high in Vitamin C. Be sure to include them on your plate often!
Cucumbers are incredibly refreshing and water-filled! They actually contain about 95% water and are rich in potassium and Vitamin K, both of which fight off inflammation that causes neck pain and back pain. Thinking of not eating the seeds or peeling off the skin? You may want to reconsider. These two areas are where most of the nutrients are found!
Strawberries may not come to mind when you think of hydrating fruit, but they actually contain 91% water. Strawberries are also rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
Cauliflower & Celery are great, nutrient-rich replacements for salty potato chips or crackers. Snack on them with hummus and other healthy dips during the summer, as they are 92% and 95% of water, respectively, and will help to keep you hydrated!
We hope that our tips for staying well will inspire you to live better and stay healthy! If you are dealing with ongoing spine-related pain no matter what you do, come in and see us. Our Spine Specialists will provide you with a same-day diagnosis and treatment plan. Please simply contact us for a consultation! Stridewell Tips
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