6 Reasons Why Coconut Water Is the Best Hydrating Drink

Coconut water is the sweet, nutritious and invigorating liquid in young coconuts. It is full of essential vitamins and minerals that help support muscle and nerve function and balance body fluids.

Thanks to its high electrolyte content, coconut water is perfect for rehydrating after diarrhea or vomiting. It’s also a great drink to rehydrate and nourish muscles after exercise.

1. Electrolytes

Coconut water contains many natural ingredients electrolyteslike sodium, magnesiumcalcium and potassium. Electrolytes are minerals necessary to balance the amount of water in your body, move waste in and out of cells, and support muscle and nerve function.

Sometimes exercising or losing too much fluid, electrolyte imbalanceThis is why sports drinks containing electrolytes are so popular. Electrolyte imbalance can occur when the amount of water in your body changes significantly after vomiting or diarrhea.

Coconut water is lower in sugar than most sports drinks and contains carbohydrates that can help improve muscle function. Studies have found that coconut water is more beneficial than regular water for post-workout rehydration due to its high amount of electrolytes.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

One glass of coconut water contains 400 milligrams (mg). potassium. A diet rich in potassium has been shown to lower blood pressure and support heart health. The electrolytes in coconut water can also balance blood pressure.

3. Protects Against Free Radicals

antioxidants Coconut water has been shown to help protect against diseases. free radicalsUnstable molecules that can damage DNA and cause cancer.

4. Prevents Kidney Stones

Coconut water may help prevent kidney stones by cleansing the system of excess crystal-forming minerals.

5. Stronger Bones and Teeth

combination phosphate Calcium and calcium in coconut water work together to help build strong bones and teeth.

6. Balances Blood Sugar

Magnesium in coconut water may help control blood sugar (sugar).

Nutrient Breakdown of Coconut Water

Coconut water is touted as nature’s sports drink due to its high levels of vitamin C and potassium. It is also low in calories and fat. One glass of 100% coconut water contains:

• Calorie: 44
• Oil: 0 grams (g)
• Sodium: 64 milligrams (mg)
• carbohydrates: 10.4g
• Fiber: 0g
• candies: 9.6g
• Protein: 0.5g
• vitamin C: 24.3 mg
• Potassium: 404mg

When Can Coconut Water Help?

Because coconut water is so hydrating and remineralizing, consider reaching for it in the following scenarios:

• after exercise
• on hot days
• After entering the sauna or steam room
• During bowel preparation colonoscopy
• If you have chronic diarrhea
• after a while stomach virus
• To replenish fluids if medically dehydrated

Is It Good to Drink Every Day for Health?

Whether drinking coconut water daily is healthy or not depends on your health and lifestyle. Consider your activity level, the climate you live in, and the amount of fluid you consume from other sources. It all depends on your health and lifestyle.

Consider your activity level, climate, and other fluid intake. Magnesium and potassium deficiencies are common in the United States; Coconut water can provide high amounts of these nutrients.

Research also shows that women increase their magnesium intake. luteal phase A decrease in symptoms was seen during the duration of menstrual periods (the two weeks leading up to menstruation).

Should No One Drink Coconut Water?

Consult a healthcare professional before drinking coconut water. renal (kidney) failurechronic kidney diseaseTake medications such as or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is high in potassium and is a life-threatening condition when the kidneys cannot properly remove excess minerals from the body. hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood) may occur.

if there is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or if you are following low FODMAP (fermentable oligo-, di- and monosaccharides and polyols) dietLimit or avoid coconut water because it contains some carbohydrates that can aggravate digestive symptoms.

Coconuts are not tree nuts, so people who are allergic to tree nuts can still safely consume coconut, but there are rare cases. coconut allergies.

Choosing Quality Store-Bought Coconut Water

Why is some of the coconut water cooled and some not? Why are some brands pink and some clear? Choosing quality store-bought coconut water can be confusing. Here’s what you need to know:

• Always look for 100% coconut water (not made from concentrate). Avoid products labeled “coconut water” as this is often coconut water mixed with other ingredients such as fruit juice or flavorings. To be sure, scan the ingredients label and make sure there is no added sugar or other ingredients.
• Pink coconut water results from the natural oxidation of its sugars. The color also indicates that it has not been pasteurized at high temperatures, which can reduce natural vitamins and minerals. Chilled coconut water is richer in flavor and slightly more expensive.
• Coconut water that is not refrigerated in the store is considered shelf stable. This means it has been pasteurized (heated to high temperatures) to maintain freshness. It is also more economical than chilled coconut water.

Summary

Coconut water is a naturally sweet drink that has many health benefits thanks to all the vitamins and electrolytes it contains. From supporting heart health to balancing blood sugar and other benefits, drinking it every day is healthy, especially if you exercise frequently or have chronic diarrhea. Anyone with kidney problems or IBS should consult a healthcare professional before making this beverage a regular beverage.