The recommendation to drink ‘more’ water is shrouded in confusion. It is not clear from research how much water is required or when it is best to drink. It is known however, that as little as a few percent dehydration significantly decreases physical and mental performance. Therefore maintaining hydration above this level is clearly paramount to normal physiological function. Fruit and vegetables have a high water content and in some cases can be composed almost exclusively of water. This makes them an important source of water, and eating more fruit and vegetables is useful in maintaining hydration levels. In this regard, vegetables tend to have lower sugar contents and so can be a healthier alternative to fruit, which tend to be high in sugars. However, the high sugar content of fruit does not appear to be problematic as long as intake moderated, and this is likely partly because the sugar is diluted by a large volume of water. The water from fruit and vegetables tends to also contain beneficial phytochemical antioxidants.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
