By now, you probably know I don't believe in eating a lot of processed foods. The secret to losing weight and living a healthy life revolves around choosing to eat live, nutritious foods. With a proper diet and consistent exercise you will obtain long-term weight loss. There is no need for extreme or trendy diets that only offer short term results.
What some people don't realize is that live foods are not only packed full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants; but they have a high water content. This means they're helping you stay hydrated as well as all the other benefits they offer.
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Staying hydrated is important to keep your energy level high. It also helps your concentration level. Your body needs to be hydrated to function properly and live foods help you obtain this goal.
So what are the live food power houses?
Cauliflower is 92.1 percent water. It's also packed with phytonutrients which are known to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cancer.
Cucumbers have the highest water content of any veggie at 96.7 percent. You can put this versatile veggie on salads or slice and dip into some hummus. Cucumber soup is also a good option for summer.
Iceberg lettuce, at 95.6, has the highest water content of any lettuce. Though it may not have the nutrients of darker lettuce or spinach, it is still a good option because of its high water content. Use it instead of bread to make wraps as well as in salads or as a bed for chicken or tuna salad.
Radishes contain 95.3 percent water. This colorful veggie adds a spark of color and spice to salads and other dishes. They also add crunch to a lettuce wrap. Shred them and add them to a coleslaw. They are not only high in water content, but also contain a wealth of antioxidants.
Watermelon is 91.5 percent water and makes the perfect summer treat. Serve it chilled and sliced. Even children will eat this food with delight. It's works as a healthy dessert for all ages especially for picnics and outdoor barbecues. It is also one of the best sources of the antioxidant lycopene.
Strawberries are 91.0 percent water. All berries are good for providing a sweet, tasty treat with a low amount of calories. But strawberries rank the highest for water content. They are perfect to add to low-fat Greek yogurt or to add taste to a green smoothie.
Remember, eating these foods will also help fight bloating. Bloating is caused by eating too many fatty and salty foods. By eating live foods, filled with water, you can cut down on your chances of feeling and looking bloated.
Add as many live foods to your diet as possible. They are nutritious as well as hydrating.
I'm always thrilled to hear the success stories of my readers. Are you achieving your healthy eating goals? Do you find eating live foods helps you feel better and more energetic throughout the day?
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