MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Aug 21, 2014) - (Family Features) Americans thirsting for more energy can refresh their hydration habits by thinking outside the water glass. Some foods -- including flavorful, water-rich produce like watermelon -- can help hydrate the body as well.
"Sliced, cubed or blended, or even simply juiced, watermelon is a delicious way to increase fluid intake and boost energy," said Elizabeth Somer, a registered dietician and author of several nutrition and wellness books. "Watermelon is 92 percent water, and the perfect ingredient for salads, salsas, smoothies and more."
With a distinctively sweet, refreshing taste, it may be hard to think of watermelon as a nutritious, low-calorie hydration boost. But actually, beyond its high water content, watermelon is loaded with vitamins A and C, potassium and magnesium, fiber and phytonutrients, such as lycopene.
Tips for picking the perfect watermelon
Choosing a good whole watermelon at the store may seem like a challenge, because the thick rind hides the vibrant fruit inside. But actually, making a good pick is as easy as 1, 2, 3.
1. Look the watermelon over. You are looking for a firm, symmetrical watermelon that is free from bruises, cuts or dents.
2. Lift it up. The watermelon should be heavy for its size; most of the weight is water.
3. Turn it over. The underside of the watermelon should have a creamy yellow spot from where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.
Once you've got your watermelon home, there are dozens of ways to enjoy it, including a wide range of cold, refreshing beverages. One easy way to up your water intake with watermelon is this simple one-ingredient recipe for watermelon juice:
Just cut a seedless watermelon into one-inch chunks with a sharp knife and place in blender. Blend watermelon well until juice is smooth. If you prefer, you can strain the juice to remove the pulp.
For a little extra flavor, try combining watermelon juice with other fruity flavors, as in this Agua Fresca, which blends that natural sweetness of watermelon with lime, a small amount of sugar and water.
Find more ideas to help you sip your way to hydration with mouthwatering inspiration at www.watermelon.org.
| Agua Fresca | |
| 1 | cup finely chopped watermelon |
| 7 | cups coarsely chopped watermelon |
| 6 | cups watermelon juice |
| 1/2 | cup sugar |
| 1 | large lime, juiced |
| 1 | serving water (if needed) |
| Watermelon wedges | |
| Mint leaves | |
Combine all ingredients, including slices of juiced lime, in large serving pitcher.
Garnish with watermelon wedges and mint.
About Family Features Editorial Syndicate
This and other food and lifestyle content can be found at www.editors.familyfeatures.com. Family Features is a leading provider of free food and lifestyle content for use in print and online publications. Register with no obligation to access a variety of formatted and unformatted features, accompanying photos, and automatically updating Web content solutions.
Contact Information:
Vickie Rocco
vrocco@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337
http://editors.familyfeatures.com
