Health Benefits of Coconut Water

By: Rodrigo Soldon

Grocery store shelves are now packed with various brands of coconut water. This tropical beverage may sound like just another health fad, but coconut water happens to be a dependable, hydrating drink for rejuvenating your health and maximizing your fitness benefits.

As we discuss the health benefits of coconut water, keep in mind we’re referring to all-natural, 100% coconut water. Be cautious of added sugars or fruit concentrate. You won’t need these sugary additives anyway because coconut water is naturally sweet and nutty.

Coconut water is naturally fat-free, making it a much better option than downing high-calorie smoothies or sports drinks. Due to its sweet flavor, coconut water can help keep you full longer. And if you thought bananas were the best source of potassium, think again. Coconut water contains more potassium than four bananas, according to WebMD.

Coconut water is dubbed as “Mother Nature’s sports drink.” This is because it provides carbohydrates in the form of sugar and electrolytes that are easy to digest. Coconut water replenishes body fluids as easily as a sports drink and better than regular water, and if you drink a large amount it will rehydrate you too. When working out, you’re quickly losing electrolytes like potassium, and you desperately need carbs to restore energy. Coconut water can provide both of these vital nutrients. Because coconut water contains numerous minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes, it happens to be a powerful, natural energy-booster in the morning. Replace your morning cup o’ Joe with coconut water for a cleaner source of energy.

Coconut water also contains about 14% of your daily requirement for magnesium. According to the USDA, only 32% of people receive enough magnesium. This important nutrient is vital to keeping your energy levels high. A lack of magnesium can also lead to asthma, diabetes, or osteoporosis.

The five essential electrolytes for the body include calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and sodium, and coconut water has them all. This causes the beverage to ease various medical conditions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and digestive problems. The beverage contains a high amount of fiber that can relieve indigestion and acid reflux. Due to its high content of cytokinins, coconut water also aids in anti-aging and minimizes the growth of cancerous cells.

After all, this is simply water, so it is always a better option than reaching for any other drink. While it is not calorie-free like regular water, coconut water will have less sugar and fewer calories than other, sweetened drinks.