For years we have heard the popular knowledge that to be hydrated it was necessary to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. However, a group of scientists from Monash University Melbourne (Australia), discovered more disadvantages than advantages over the excess of drinking water.
‘Drinking lots of water activates the 'intake inhibition' mechanism, which protects the body from overhydration, but which can also cause body poisoning. As it can produce 'hyponatremia', a disorder that causes nausea, convulsions and sodium concentration in the blood,’ says Michael Farrell, author of the study.
This study was tested on more than one thousand people and proved that people need to drink water when feeling thirst or when the body has symptoms of dehydration. On the other hand, Professor Farrell assured to the National Academy of Sciences of the United States that: ‘the intake of 8 glasses of liquid, has to be spread throughout the day in fruits, juices, meats and some water". To stay hydrated and avoid over hydration by drinking water, see the five foods that can help you stay hydrated during the day:
Cucumber
Cucumber comes from the same family of pumpkins, this fruit is ideal to moisturise and add nutritional benefits to your body. On the other hand, cucumber contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, C, folic acid, calcium, zinc, fibre and ascorbic acid that works as an antioxidant.
You can use it in salads and even in juices. Its caloric content is 16 grams per 100, which helps the body to have energy and also to clean the digestive system with fibre.
Broccoli
Thanks to the vitamins C, E, B3, B1 and B9, this vegetable is ideal to quench thirst. Its phytochemicals ‘proteins of vegetable origin’ and antioxidants make the vegetable ideal to be used in green smoothies, salads and in many different dishes.
Tomato
It is used in salads, soups and juices, the tomato is a food that helps you to stay hydrated. Its content of potassium, phosphorus and vitamin A and C helps the body as well as acting as an anti-wrinkle cream. This is thanks to its lycopene content ‘antioxidant’ that protects the skin against dehydration.
On the other hand, the tomato is easy and versatile and you can include in all your meals and you can eat it in your breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Apple
It doesn’t matter if it is green, red, golden or whatever, it serves to moisturise the skin and quenches thirst. This fruit has 86% water and is one of the foods with more antioxidants, which ensures that it will keep your body hydrated. Apples also help to reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
Coconut
This tropical fruit is one of the favourite fruits to make body lotions, soaps and drinks that guarantee a hydrated skin. This is due to its content of sugar, vitamins, minerals and amino acids ‘proteins’, among others.
