Dr. Stephanie Bartolotti
Jun 18, 20192 min
Updated: 19 hours ago
Coconut water has become a very popular and trendy drink these days. This tasty and refreshing liquid can be found in almost every grocery and convenient store out there. The benefits of coconut water are pretty amazing, so it is no wonder why this beverage has become so popular over the last few years. We’re going to share some of these benefits with you, but first, let’s talk about what coconut water is.
What is Coconut Water?
Coconut water (Cocos nucifera) is the clear liquid found inside a young, green coconut which is usually about the size of a basketball. It is ideally harvested from large palms trees at 5 - 7 months of age because that is when the coconut contains the most water. The water naturally forms within the coconut, making up 94% of the fruit, and it contains very little fat. This wonderful beverage is a good source of several nutrients like sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium (just to name a few). In fact, these nutrients make coconut water a great alternative to sports drinks and water because it restores hydration and replenishes electrolytes without all the extra sugar and chemicals!
The Benefits of Coconut Water
It is a very good source of several nutrients including: fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium, and calcium.
It has antioxidant properties to combat oxidative stress.
It can lower blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity in patients with diabetes.
It helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
It lowers cholesterol, triglycerides and liver fat.
It reduces blood pressure due to its high potassium content.
It aids in preventing blood clots.
It replenishes electrolytes lost after prolonged activity and/or sweating.
It is a delicious way to rehydrate.
The best way to drink coconut water is straight out of the coconut. The second best option is to consume brands containing 100% coconut water and avoid the products with added sugar. Coconut water is a must during the hot summer months and for anyone doing strenuous activity, especially in the heat. Bottoms up!
Sources:
Boldt, E. (2018, January 26). Coconut Water: Is It Good for You? 5 Major Benefits. Retrieved from https://draxe.com/is-coconut-water-good-for-you/
Spritzler, F. (2018, September 6). 8 Science-Based Health Benefits of Coconut Water. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-coconut-water-benefits#section4
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