Just about everywhere in the U.S. is currently experiencing an intense heat wave as we’re getting closer to the thick of summer and we can only expect it to get hotter. No matter where you’re located though, as the temperatures across the country increases, it’s important to keep a good sunscreen on deck and to stay hydrated.
If you’re one of those people who feels like drinking water is an unwanted chore you have to cross off your to-do list, the good news is there are other delicious ways to replenish your thirst levels. So, the next time you’re heading outside to the beach or going for a run around the park, be sure to grab one of these drinks in addition to your water to rehydrate you when you’re feeling parched.
Watermelon Water
Besides being deliciously hydrating (hence its name WATER-MELON), watermelon water has a ton of benefits. Loaded with way more potassium than the average sports drink, watermelon water is a great hydrating drink to have during your workout since the naturally occurring potassium serves as a key electrolyte.
Additionally, watermelon water contains Vitamin C, l-citrulline (amino acid) and lycopene (antioxidants), which is beneficial to the body as it supports cardiovascular health, bone health and has anti-inflammatory properties. There are a few bands of bottled watermelon water that are sold at some grocery stores, but you can also slice a few pieces of watermelon and throw it in the blender to make your own.
Coconut Water
I’m in love with the coco! Well, coconut water. Found in the center of a young, green coconut, coconut water helps to nourish the fruit and is packed with several important nutrients and minerals that are beneficial to the body. This trendy drink is a good source of fiber, Vitamin C, antioxidant properties and thanks to the electrolytes coconut water contains, it makes for an excellent beverage for restoring hydration.
According to this study, coconut water restored hydration levels better than water and was shown to be equivalent to drinking a high-electrolyte sports drink. Although the water is freshest when it comes directly from the coconut, you can also buy bottled coconut water at most grocery stores but you’ll want to consume it within a week or two after opening. Be sure to check the ingredient list to ensure you’re getting 100% coconut water.
Aloe Vera Juice
Who knew this plant has so many benefits?! Besides being a wonderful plant to use in your beauty regimen to attain clear skin, the aloe plant is very water-dense, making it an ideal drink to help keep you hydrated, especially during an intense workout.
Additionally, this nutritious drink contains vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, vitamin B, vitamin C and Vitamin E. Other benefits of aloe vera juice is that it can help balance your pH levels, promote healthy liver function thanks to being rich in phytonutrients, and can help with increasing the water content in your intestines, which is beneficial if you’re constipated. You can find pure aloe vera juice at most health food stores.
Shawna Davis is a wellness journalist and the founder and creator of the wellness lifestyle blog, Froing and Flowing. Beyond the blog, she is a certified yoga instructor, wife, dog mama and is a natural hair enthusiast that’s passionate about health, wellness, and natural beauty. You can follow her on Instagram @itsshawnadavis.