We know hydration is the key to younger-looking skin, an increased metabolism, and improved health, but sometimes drinking those eight glasses of water a day can be hard going. So what if we told you that you could eat your water? It is said that roughly 20% of our daily H20 intake comes from solid foods and with an array of fruits and vegetables holding both water and necessary electrolytes like potassium, eating your water really is a viable option.
To help you out, we’ve sourced four highly hydrating recipes that are as delicious as they are good for you.
image via pinterest
The Soup: Chicken Soup
Chicken soup can seriously hydrate you when you need it — the inclusion of sodium helps you to retain the water and carbohydrates to help your body absorb it.
Ingredients:
250g chicken breast meat, skinned and finely chopped
1 large brown onion. Halved, finely chopped
2 large parsnips, peeled, finely chopped
1 celery stick, trimmed, finely chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tsp. parsley
4 cups chicken stock
4 cups water
½ tsp. whole black peppercorns
sea salt flakes
Method:
– Combine the chicken, onion, parsnips, carrot, celery, potatoes, garlic, parsley, chicken stock, water and peppercorns in a large saucepan over medium-heat. Bring to boil.
– Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender
– Taste and season with sea salt. Sprinkle with extra parsley an serve
image via pinterest
The Dessert: Choose-your-own-adventure Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seeds have the unique ability to absorb water, meaning they can prolong hydration and retain electrolytes. They also happen to make a delightful prepared-in-minutes pudding.
Ingredients:
¼ cup coconut milk
¼ cup Chia seeds
1 tbsp honey or other sweetener (or more depending on how sweet you like it)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Plus any fruit or topping you desire. For example: frozen raspberries, stewed rhubarb, coconut, or poached pears
Method:
– Mix the coconut milk, chia seeds, sweetener, and vanilla extract in a medium size bowl.
– Transfer into shot glasses or small bowls
– Refrigerate for at least two hours
– Serve chilled with toppings of choice
image via pinterest
The Salad: Cucumber Salad with Orange-Coriander Dressing
At 96% water, the humble cucumber is one of the most hydrating vegetables around. It also contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and other minerals to effectively hydrate the body.
Salad Ingredients:
1 large cucumber
¼ avocado
1 tbsp sesame seeds
Dressing Ingredients:
½ bunch of coriander chopped
½ cup Meko 100% Coconut Water
1 orange peeled
2 tbsp tahini
½ tsp tumeric powder
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp maple syrup
salt & pepper to taste
Method:
– Slice the cucumber length-wise using a peeler and place in a bowl; top with sesame seeds and avocado
– Using a hand blender mix the dressing ingredients until smooth.
– Serve together and enjoy!
Recipe courtesy Nutritionist Nikolett Toth
image via pinterest
The Smoothie: Coco-Nutty Green Smoothie
Believe it or not, the banana is 74% water! Our favourite yellow fruit also happens to contain high level of potassium and magnesium — both essential for hydration. This super smoothie from Nutritionist Nikolett Toth is the perfect way to rehydrate your body on waking.
Ingredients:
1 banana
1 cup Meko 100% Coconut Water coconut water
1 cup spinach leaves
2 tbsp LSA mix
a small handful of mixed nuts
1-2 dates
Method:
– Place all ingredients in a high power blender and blend for 30-60 seconds
– Pour into a glass or bowl and enjoy with a spoon!