In the studios, you likely hear a lot of talk about making sure you stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after class. (You can also learn how to kick up your hydration game with water in this blog post!)

Do you know why it is wise to stay hydrated? Because it keeps you moving and grooving! When you are dehydrated, you might feel extra tired, experience headaches, and generally feel not like yourself. While everyones hydration needs differ, you should always make it a priority. This might look like drinking water and other fluids, but you can also experiment by adding hydrating foods into your meals and snacks.

So, let’s talk about options other than water. Produce is abundant in the summer; it seems like we just can’t get enough of it with our hot Midwest temperatures! Keep reading to learn some hydration-boosting foods you can incorporate into your diet to start EATING your hydration:

• Watermelon is a juicy shot of lycopene (an antioxidant), fiber, vitamin c, and magnesium. Just one cup of watermelon provides over a half cup of water. Of course, an easy way to eat watermelon is to slice it and eat it off of the rind. But you can also grill it or try this Watermelon Feta Basil Salad that is bursting with flavor.
• Strawberries are also high in lycopene, reduce inflammation within the body, and may protect again heart disease. Another bonus – they are delicious! 91% of strawberries weight comes from water, so adding them as a side or making them part of your main meal is going to help support your hydration status. This Vitamin C-Packed Strawberry Orange Banana Smoothie would be so refreshing after a sweaty class.
• Cucumbers are full of water (95%!) and add a nice crunch to a salad or snack. They can contribute to your hydration levels with a refreshing and light mouthfeel that isn’t heavy. Cucumbers can also be added into a stir-fry or add a twist for a Cooler Cucumber Cocktail.
•  Oranges are huge for your immune system and heart health – and also provide fiber which can help keep you full. Oranges are an easy addition to a fruit salad, but I love the idea of a snack that includes an orange, cashews, and string cheese. This would provide fiber and protein – the perfect snack! These Orange Popsicles would be a fun and easy option. My daughter loves making homemade popsicles similar to this – they always seem to be a hit!
•  Peaches for you, peaches for me. I LOVE peaches, and I was raised buying flats of Colorado peaches in the summer. They provide an exceptional amount of potassium, B vitamins, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Peaches are 90% water and are another fruit that is full of fiber. I love adding sliced peaches to pancakes. These Banana Oatmeal Pancakes feels like something that would be fun to whip up – with peaches on top, of course!

How do you stay hydrated on and off your mat? If feel you don’t drink enough water, try adding in other fluids or eat food that is hydrating. As always, start small and create attainable goals. Remember, small steps make a big difference!