Ditch The Sports Drinks And Hydrate With Summer Fruits

Next time you're in need of hydration and electrolytes, ditch the Gatorade and reach for a peach instead.

During the hot summer months, avoiding dehydration is on most people's mind. Though most people reach for a bottle of water or a sports drink when they feel dehydrated, nutritionists suggest reaching for your fresh summer fruit instead. 

Dehydration can cause a number of maladies, including headaches, irritability, and concentration issues, and excessive fluid loss through sweat can cause a loss of electrolytes, potassium, and sodium that your body desperately needs, especially in the hot summer heat. Health professionals recommend consuming at least four liters of water per day, or its equivalent in potassium-rich fruits.

Peaches, mangoes, apples, and melons are rich in electrolytes, and have a high water content to keep you hydrated all summer long. What's more, they're a healthier and more natural equivalent to the sugary sports drinks that most people thirst for when they feel dehydrated.

In addition to hydrating your body with electrolytes, these fresh summer fruits contain important nutrients to keep you feeling your best throughout the summer.

For example, watermelon is packed with vitamin C, with one serving providing you with nearly 40 percent of your recommended daily dose. Meanwhile summer berries have a high fiber and antioxidant content to keep your digestive and immune systems on track.

Health professionals stress that it's important to remember to stay hydrated even in the cooler months, especially for those who are physically active. As the weather gets cooler and summer fruit season begins to end, consider eating fall fruit alternatives, like fresh apples, to meet your electrolyte needs.