Water is an important substance needed for transportation of nutrients to the cells, moistening tissues and cooling in order to keep a consistent body temperature. Through normal processes, the average adult losses about 2.5 liters (or 10 cups) of water everyday and that amount can increase during hot, humid weather or strenuous physical activities.

Sometimes it seems difficult to consume all the water necessary to replenish water lost when temperatures begin to rise. One way to replenish some of the water loss is to concentrate on eating fruits and vegetables that have high amounts of water in them. Surprisingly, some solid foods can provide a significant amount of the water your body needs.

Eating plenty of these fruits and vegetables not only provides you with important phytonutrients but it also provides another way to stay hydrated particularly during the hot, summer months. Here is a list of the amount of water contained in selected fruits and vegetables:

Cucumbers 96%

Lettuce 95%

Tomatoes 94%

Watermelon 92%

Grapefruit 91%

Orange juice 88%

Apples 85%

Some less obvious foods also contain significant amounts of water. For example, cooked beans and cereals contain about 70% water while meats and poultry contain between 45-75% water.

Eating an ample amount of these water packed fruits and vegetables can really help keep you hydrated during the heat of summer. Of course, you already know about all the wonderful phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals that these juicy, low-calorie fruits and vegetables contain- so drink up your fruits and vegetables!