What are the health benefits of coconut water?
Coconut water is all the rage right now and for good reason! Coconut water is said to be the most valuable super food on earth and nature’s most refreshing drink. Consumed worldwide, coconut water is packed with a variety of health benefits. It is the purest liquid second only to water itself. If that’s not enough to sell you on this delicious, healthy and beneficial drink, here are a few more reasons.
RELATED: The Many Benefits Of Coconut Water
What is coconut water?
Coconut water is a liquid that forms naturally inside the shell of a coconut. It's a common drink in many tropical countries and is becoming more popular in the U.S. Some companies market it as a natural sports drink.
You May Also Like
Why do people drink coconut water?
In many countries, coconut water is thought to have health benefits. Coconut water is 94% water and fairly low in calories. It seems to be a good source of B vitamins and potassium. Coconut water contains electrolytes, various plant hormones, enzymes, and amino acids. Some substances in coconut water could theoretically have antioxidant benefits in the body.
Scientific studies of coconut water have been limited. One study suggested that drinking coconut water might be associated with a lower rate of heart attacks. Another small study found that coconut water significantly lowered systolic blood pressure in 71% of people with hypertension.
Coconut water has been used as a way to rehydrate after exercise or illness. Coconut water has even been used as an emergency substitute for IV solutions. Also, it may be a good storage solution for a tooth that has been knocked out until someone can see a dentist.
You May Also Like
However, for now, there is no scientific evidence that coconut water offers clear health benefits.
How much coconut water should you take?
Coconut water has not been well-studied as a treatment. There are no officially recommended doses.
Can you get coconut water naturally from foods?
Coconut water is a food. If you crack open a raw coconut, coconut water is the liquid in the center.
Don't confuse coconut water with other liquids derived from coconuts. Coconut milk is made by grating the meat of the coconut and collecting the liquid. Coconut milk is high in saturated fat and is an ingredient in many recipes. Coconut oil is made from coconut milk or dried coconut meat. It's used for cooking, skin care, and engine lubrication, among other things.
What are the risks of taking coconut water?
Side effects. So far, there's no evidence that it poses side effects. However, coconut milk contains a fair amount of sodium, so it may not be a good choice for people who need to reduce their salt intake.
So what are the benefits?
1. Prevents dehydration.
Refuels and rehydrates – coconut water maintains the body’s fluid levels and its potassium content helps maintain water pressure within cells and blood.
2. Fuel for brain and muscles.
Due to its electrolyte content, coconut water improves nervous system functioning and nerve transmission.
Prevents cramps and spasms in the muscles.
3. Heart and kidney healthy.
Reduces the risk of hypertension and strokes and helps prevent or resolve kidney stones.
4. Anti-aging.
Contains compounds (cytokinins) that protect cells from aging and cancer.
5. Digestive Aid.
Improves digestion and metabolism via bioactive enzymes. Aids absorption of food and efficacy of drugs due to its electrolytic effect. Soothes intestinal pain/spasm.
6. Supports immune function.
Its Lauric acid content is anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral. It boosts the immune system in fighting infection whilst helping to eradicate intestinal worms and candida.
