Stay Happy With Hydration
Hydration is important all year, but especially during the summer months when hot weather and outdoor activities can leave you depleted of moisture and electrolytes. Along with improving sleep quality, promoting digestion, and preventing infection, staying hydrated can also positively affect your mental health. A 2018 study published in the World Journal of Psychiatry found that drinking water was associated with decreased risk of depression and anxiety in adults, and those who drank adequate amounts of H2O reported being happier and healthier.
How much water should you drink? Experts recommend having between 11 and 16 cups (91–132 ounces) of water daily. Tea and fresh juice are other ways to get enough fluids, and you can use citrus or herbs, like mint, to flavor plain water. Many fruits, such as cucumber, tomatoes, and watermelon, are wonderful sources of water themselves. In addition to containing potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A and C, watermelon is made up of 92% water, which can help you stay hydrated and happy during the steamy summer months.
Recipe: Watermelon Feta Salad
Ingredients
- 3 cups watermelon, cubed
- ½ fresh lime
- ¼ cup feta cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
- Place cubed melon in a serving dish and squeeze fresh lime juice over.
- Top with feta and mint.
Nutrition
Per serving:
81 calories, 3g protein, 13g carbohydrate (1g fiber), 3g fat (2g sat, 1g mono/poly), 144mg sodium