SFDA Recommends Water-Rich Vegetables and Fruit to Prevent Dehydration in Summer

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) stressed the importance of consuming water-rich vegetables and fruit such as lettuce and watermelon to avoid dehydration during the summer and to meet daily fluid needs. The SFDA explained that it is preferable to consume these foods whole rather than as juice to obtain a sufficient amount of fiber, which helps in maintaining blood sugar levels.
The SFDA emphasized the need to wash these fruit under running water before eating or peeling and not to use soap, detergents, or bleach solutions. A small brush should be used to clean the surface from soil if necessary. Additionally, any scratched or damaged areas should be cut away to prevent the transfer of bacteria to the inside of the fruit during peeling or cutting, as these areas may harbor bacteria.
Fruit such as grapes are rich in antioxidants that help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart diseases. Bananas are also rich source of vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium, which support metabolism, reduce fatigue, maintain muscle, nerve, heart, and kidney functions, control blood sugar, and regulate blood pressure. Spinach is another notable mention for its richness in vitamin B9, folate, vitamins K and E, calcium, iodine, and other essential minerals.
These guidelines and tips are part of the "Summer and Tourism" campaign the SFDA implements to raise awareness about various topics related to summer, travel, and tourism, including food allergies, safe food practices while traveling, food poisoning, medicine storage during travel, cosmetic products, and public health pesticides.