We've all heard that incessant health mantra - drink more water. But did you ever stop to think that maybe, just maybe, your food can also double up as your water bottle? Yeah, that’s right. Who decided that water can only come diluted in a plain ol' liquid? Eat your water.

Current nutritional guidelines prescribe a total water intake of 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 cups for men. But did you know food, mother nature's slim juice box, can contribute up to 20% of your daily hydration? You do now.

Let’s get the obvious out of the way, yes, cucumbers are as refreshing as a dip in the pool on a hot summer's day. They're 96% water, and their pickled siblings aren't far behind at 95%. Thinly slice them into salads or munch on them like chips – cucumber is a dieter’s dream.

Let's move over to another underappreciated water source – the iceberg lettuce. Not just a name for Chris Pratt's stunt double, this green delight serves up a deluge of water at a whopping 95.6%. So, chop it into your salads or use it as a healthier alternative to taco shells and burger buns.

Shifting gears to the stalker you can eat – celery. This 95% water logged veggie is also rich in fiber. Need a snack to dip in your hummus? In sautees? Celery is your guy.

Next up, the spicy little taproot – radishes. These peppery arsonists are also 95% water, delivering a spicy splash of hydration to your salads, tacos and sandwiches.

Romaine lettuce is the iceberg’s more sophisticated cousin, containing 95% water and far more nutrients. Use it in salads or as a blanket for your wrap.

Whoever said you can’t sip on a zucchini was clearly out of his gourd. This summer squash has a water content of 94.8%, packing a punch of fiber, vitamin A, and a low calorie count.

Tomatoes and bell peppers, with a water content of 94% each, are the Italian pole dancers of the hydration world. They are versatile, tasty and can be used in various sumptuous recipes.

Asparagus and Portobello mushrooms, full of water and low in calories, make for a savory change. Their umami character packs a lot of flavor into your meals.

Our summer favorite, watermelon, is 92% water. It's a juicy refreshing treat that hydrates while satisfying your sweet tooth. Greens lover? Spinach too serves up 92% water content, along with a hefty dose of nutrients.

Strawberries, nature’s sweet candies, contain 91% water and are also high in antioxidants associated with heart health.

Milk, the liquid form of comfort food, is 91% water. Use it as a base for your oatmeal, in your tea or coffee, or pour it onto a bowl of healthy granola.

Finally, broccoli. This baby tree imposter is 90% water and a cocktail of beneficial nutrients.

An important takeaway - sweating during exercise or on hot days, or when sick with a fever or gastric issues, drains your body’s water reserve. Boost your intake of water and hydrating foods during those times, and keep an eye open for signs of dehydration.

Remember, staying hydrated is key to staying healthy, and you can get a chunk of the water you need just from food. Fruits and vegetables not only help maintain your body's water balance but also make your meals refreshing and bursting with flavor. So keep calm, eat your water, and Drown the Drought!