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Foods to Eat When Dehydrated

Drinking water is an essential treatment for dehydration, it effectively replenishes bodily fluids and stops further depletion. But solid food can also act as valuable hydrating agents; in some cases solid foods may even be preferable to plain water because of their higher nutritional value. Food already provides roughly 20 percent of our fluid intake, and water-rich foods can contribute more to this daily allowance. In addition to reversing dehydration, water-rich foods can supply the body with mineral salts, amino acids and vitamins. By fortifying the body with nutrients, these foods can facilitate water retention and prevent relapses of dehydration.

  1. Watermelon

    • Considering that it is 92 percent water, watermelon is an appropriately named fruit. It is rich in vitamin C, beta carotene and lycopene and contains only 8 percent sugar.Moreover, watermelon is perhaps the most effective fruit against dehydration because it is a natural source of rehydrating salts such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium.

    Cucumber

    • Cucumbers are so naturally packed with water, their consumption can produce hydration levels that exceed plain water intake. And just like watermelon, this mineral-rich gourd has ideal levels calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium for combating dehydration.

    Celery

    • The water content of celery is overwhelmingly high compared to other vegetables. While most vegetables are 90 percent water, celery is 96 percent, and just two or three stalks of celery can replenish the body's levels of calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. Celery is also a valuable source of nutrients that contribute to maintaining good health, including phosphorus, iron and zinc.

    Soups

    • Compared to other types of dishes, soups probably have the highest water content because of their liquid base. Generally speaking, clear soups such as bouillons and consommes are more hydrating than thicker soups such as bisques and chowders. Boullions and consommes are simple broths that are strained from a simmered mixture of water, meat, bones, vegetables, herbs or grains.

    Ice Pops

    • Since ice pops are essentially frozen water mixed with natural and/or artificial flavorings, they offer a great way to get fluids. Often times, they are an appealing hydration option for children who are picky eaters. Conventional ice pops are sufficient hydration agents, but some are specially made from electrolyte solutions that replace the minerals and fluids lost from dehydration.

    Gelatin Desserts

    • Gelatin is commonly dissolved in hot water with ingredients such as sweetener, flavoring and food coloring to prepare a dessert. Because gelatin desserts are primarily water, they are efficient in replacing bodily fluids. In addition to being a good source of hydration, gelatin deserts also contain collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that helps the body strengthen bones and skin.

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