Sage Advice: Going Beyond Water for Hydration

As the temperatures soar, so does our need for hydration.

On average, we need 2 liters of water each day to maintain an adequate level of hydration. Water is critically important to helping both the body and brain to function yet many of us simply don't drink enough water each day.

The challenge of staying properly hydrated can be especially challenging for older adults. First, the aging process is accompanied by a lowered sensation of thirst. Second, our skin thins as we age which results a decreased sensitivity to heat so there is a "false" sense of coolness even though summer temperatures are high. Third, many older adults have difficulty with walking so they reduce their intake of water to reduce the need for trips to and from the bathroom.

While staying hydrated is important at all times, it is even more important during the summer when temperatures spike. A lack of adequate hydration can present a number of health risks --- and some of those health risks can prove to be fatal.

While drinking water is one way to boost hydration, there is also the option of eating fruit and vegetables which contain high water content.

Fruits and vegetables with high water content will help to boost hydration as well as provide a wide variety of minerals and nutrients to our diets. There is, of course, the additional benefit of flavor and variety!

 Here is a listing of fruits and vegetables with high water content. As you will see from the list below, the options are plentiful:

food

% water

Have a happy, healthy summer!