We’re in the heat of summer, which makes it an ideal time to talk about hydration. Did you know seniors have to be especially careful about staying hydrated in summer? That’s because they sometimes may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need water.
The good news is: drinking water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated. In addition to water, there are food choices that can help seniors stay hydrated. This is good news for caregivers, since getting senior loved ones — anyone, really — to drink enough water can sometimes be next to impossible.
Food Choices that Hydrate
As the summer heat continues, try adding these food choices to your senior loved one’s diet. You may want to consider them for yourself, too!
- Cucumbers. Cukes make the top of the list because at 95 percent water, they’re incredibly hydrating. They also contain important minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- Salad Greens. You can eat an entire bowl of greens and it’s only about 15 calories. That’s because greens are mostly water: 90 percent, in fact! Unlike water, however, greens have vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Watermelon. This thirst-quenching fruit is packed with Vitamin C and beta carotene. Fittingly for a summertime fruit, watermelon also contains lycopene, which may protect the body from the sun’s UV rays.
- Celery. Rich in minerals, celery is 96 percent water. It’s important to replenish minerals like iron, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and zinc because they’re flushed out with perspiration. Celery does the trick!
- Strawberries. Not everyone likes cucumbers and celery, which is why it’s good that strawberries are hydrating, too. And loaded with vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants.
- Tomato sauce. Up until now, our list of hydrating foods has been 100% raw fruits and veggies. However, you don’t have to be a raw foods fanatic to stay hydrated. Tomato sauce is about 90 percent water!
- Applesauce. Good old applesauce hydrates, too. Just be sure to choose the unsweetened type.
- Chicken Noodle Soup. Most seniors will be glad to see this item on the list. It may not be the first food you think of to serve on a hot July evening, but it does hydrate.
- Yogurt. Yogurt provides several benefits, including hydration. At around 87 percent water, the low fat type provides a good source of calcium and probiotics, too.
- Popsicles. With a Popsicle, you accomplish two summertime goals: hydration and a fun sense of nostalgia.
- Carrots. Besides containing powerful antioxidants (beta-carotene), carrots are about 86 percent water.
- Broccoli. Ringing in at 91 percent water, raw broccoli is another great way to stay hydrated. Added benefits: fiber and Vitamin C.
Healthy Eating all Year Long
At Five Star Senior Living, we’re always on the lookout for healthy living tips to pass on to seniors and their caregivers. Our residents enjoy a healthy, well-rounded dining experience as part of our Signature Dining Program.