What Foods Count Toward My Water Intake?

We all know the importance of staying hydrated. But if the idea of refilling that Stanley cup over and over is daunting, keep in mind that not all of your hydration needs have to come from drinking water. Breathe a sigh of relief: According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the foods you eat can count toward your daily water intake. 

So, what foods are best at helping us stay hydrated? Raw fruits and vegetables are at the top of list. And besides helping up your water intake, they also provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber for your diet. Any fruits or vegetables with more than 80% water content are ideal. 

Here are 10 of the best choices, along with their water content, as recommended by UCLA Health:

1. Cucumber (96%)

Cucumbers come out on top, containing more water than other solid food.

2. Iceberg Lettuce (96%)

It’s not the trendiest salad green, but iceberg lettuce beats the others at keeping you hydrated.

3. Celery (95%)

Besides being a great source of water, celery is also an excellent source of fiber.

4. Romaine Lettuce (95%)

It’s full of water, and also full of vitamins C and A, folate, and fiber.

5. Tomatoes (94%)

Remember, tomatoes are fruits. And they happen to be the fruit with the highest water content.

6. Bell peppers (92%)

Apparently all bell peppers are not created equal: The green ones have the highest water content.

7. Cabbage (92%)

All cabbages contain even more water when cooked (94%) and bok choy ups that to 96%.

8. Cauliflower (92%)

Good news for riced cauliflower fans: Cauliflower has even more water (93%) when it’s cooked.

9. Mushrooms (92%)

Unlike some other veggies, mushrooms lose water content when cooked, so try to eat them raw.

10. Watermelon (92%)

Like its name, watermelon is full of water. But it’s also a good source of the antioxidant lycopene.