The Controversy of Water

There is a lot of debate in the natural health community about what the ideal type of water is. Reverse osmosis, distilled, spring, or tap? The discussion has been ongoing for decades and will likely never be fully resolved.

Water is undeniably essential for life. Our bodies are made up of approximately 60% water, and we're constantly reminded to drink eight glasses a day for optimum health. But what if we told you that there's a type of water, naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables, that might be even more beneficial for hydration than regular H2O? Enter "gel water."

What is "Gel Water?"

Also known as "structured water," "EZ (exclusion zone) water," or "liquid crystalline water," gel water is a form of water that exists within the cells of certain plants. Unlike the liquid state of water that comes from our taps or bottles, gel water is in a phase that is somewhere between solid (like ice) and liquid. This unique molecular structure, due to the presence of proteins, fibers, and sugars in plants, is believed to help water stay in our tissues longer, promoting better hydration.

Why Gel Water Might Be Superior for Hydration

1. Prolonged Hydration: The molecular structure of gel water helps it stay in our cells longer than regular water. This means that our cells get a prolonged exposure to hydration, keeping them healthy and functioning optimally.

2. Nutrient Delivery: Fruits and vegetables that contain gel water also come packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. When we consume these, not only are we hydrating our bodies, but we're also nourishing them.

3. Better Absorption: The structured nature of gel water may facilitate better absorption in the gut compared to regular water. This means we get more bang for our buck in terms of hydration per volume consumed.

4. Natural Electrolyte Balance: Many fruits and vegetables containing gel water, such as cucumbers, celery, and watermelon, also have natural electrolytes. These electrolytes help balance the water within and outside our cells and improve muscle function.

How to Get More Gel Water in Your Diet

Incorporating more gel water into your diet is easy and delicious. Here are some fruits and vegetables rich in gel water:

- Cucumbers: Made up of about 96% water, cucumbers are a great source of gel water. They also contain silica, which supports skin health.

- Celery: Another vegetable with high water content, celery is a crunchy and refreshing way to up your gel water intake.

- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries have significant amounts of gel water and come packed with antioxidants.

- Watermelon: This fruit is not just tasty but is also a hydration powerhouse. It's 92% water, most of which is gel water.

- Chia Seeds: When soaked, chia seeds produce a gel-like substance. This is due to the formation of gel water, making chia seeds a great addition to smoothies, puddings, and more.

Conclusion

While regular water consumption is vital for health, understanding and integrating sources of gel water can offer a superior hydration experience. Incorporating fruits and vegetables that contain gel water not only keeps you hydrated but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients. So the next time you reach for a snack, consider a hydrating piece of fruit or vegetable to boost your hydration in the most natural way possible.