Best Hydrating Foods for Seniors to Eat This Summer

Considering the fact that the human body is about 60% water, it’s easy to see why constantly replenishing moisture is so critical to keep our bodies functioning well. For seniors, hydration is especially important. The National Institutes of Health reports that “older adults are more vulnerable to dehydration, especially those living with multiple chronic diseases.”

So, what can you do to stay hydrated and healthy this summer?

Drink Up!

The common rule of thumb says adults should drink eight glasses of water daily. Water may be the elixir of life, but to many people it’s boring. If drinking all that water isn’t very appealing, jazz it up! Add some sliced lemons, limes, or oranges to your pitcher. You can also add some fresh, lightly-crushed mint or sweet basil. Drinking coconut water is a refreshing alternative.

Drink milk, choosing low-fat or skim. Coffee and tea are also hydrating. But keep in mind that caffeine is a diuretic, so it can have a dehydrating effect as well.

Better yet, you can munch your way to proper hydration and healthy nutrition at the same time. If you’re on the go this summer, moisture-rich snacks can be just as portable as a bottle of water. They can also be blended into delicious, nutritious smoothies.

Yum – There’s a Panoply of Juicy Fruits to Consume

Now that summer is here, there are plenty of sweet and refreshing fruit options. All of these are especially valuable for hydration:

• Watermelon
• Peaches
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Grapes
• Cantaloupe
• Apples
• Grapefruit (not always available in summer, and not a good choice if you’re taking certain medications)

Veggies Might Surprise You

Some vegetables have an obviously-high moisture content, but there are additional hydrating options that you might not have considered.

• Tomatoes
• Celery
• Cucumber (slices are also a great addition to water)
• Zucchini
• Cauliflower – you weren’t expecting this one, were you? Cauliflower is 92% water!
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Lettuce and spinach (darker colors are high in antioxidants, too)
• Cabbage

Add Moisture to Meals

Fruits and veggies make excellent snacks on their own, but there are almost unlimited ways to incorporate them into dishes that are just right for summertime meals. There are other foods that are also moisture-rich. In addition to the smoothies mentioned earlier, you might consider:

• Salads, of course, with combinations of fruits and/or vegetables
• Gazpacho, either chunky or blended till smooth
• Hummus to dip fresh or roasted fruits and veggies
• Lettuce and tomato slices on sandwiches or in wraps
• Yogurt, alone or with fruit
• Cottage cheese, alone or with fruit or veggies
• Summery broth-based soups
• Marinades that add moisture and flavor to meats

With so many tasty options, it’s not that hard to stay hydrated. However, some seniors become hesitant eaters. Dressing up a presentation with fun glassware or dishes, or adding a few berries or tomatoes to desirable foods, are just a couple of ways you can encourage hesitant seniors to eat up to stay healthy as well as hydrated.

Magnolia Manor Offers Delicious, Nutritious, Hydrating Meals

All 8 senior living campuses in south Georgia serve up nutritious southern cuisine that's good for the body and soul. But don't just take our word for it. When you schedule a free tour at Magnolia Manor, you also get to enjoy one of our delicious meals. Come see and taste for yourself how wonderful senior living can be. Call us any time at 1-855-540-LIFE (5433) to schedule a tour.