Skip to content 
What is coconut water, and what does it do?
Coconut water has a pleasant, refreshing flavor for those who haven't tried it before. Coconut water, unlike other coconut-derived products (such as oil and milk), is low in fat and has a light viscosity that resembles water.
Coconut water is usually sold in cartons or cans unless you're lucky enough to suck it directly from the flesh.
Is there any health advantage to drinking coconut water?
Yes, absolutely. Coconut water is known as Mother Nature's sports drink because of its high nutritional content, which makes it excellent for replenishing reserves after exercise. It includes readily digested carbohydrates (although have less sugar than other sports drinks) and electrolytes such as potassium and sodium.
However, since plain water remains the gold standard in terms of hydration, there's no need to change up your post-workout refueling regimen.
Is it healthy to consume coconut water daily?
So, should you go all out with the booze? A famous nutritionist and author, from the United States, says. 'Singling out a particular meal or drink and proclaiming it to be the secret to good health is not an appropriate way of thinking about nutrition, as it is with everything else. Rather than something very specific, our bodies require a broad and balanced diet. There is no such thing as a superfood, She adds.
Coconut water is a safe (and tasty!) drink for the majority of individuals. Those with renal illness, on the other hand, should restrict their intake of potassium-rich foods and beverages, such as coconut water.
What about big-brand coconut water that has been processed and packaged?
Okay. Sure, it's not a cure-all. Also, keep in mind that pasteurized and processed varieties contain fewer nutrients than fresh-from-the-nut ones, so check the back of a carton before parting with your money. If possible, always drink from the fresh fruit.
So, what are some of the beverage's possible benefits? Continue reading to find out.
1. Coconut water is a delectable substitute for your Diet Coke obsession.
Are you looking for a healthy soft drink? Get yourself a glass of coconut water after that. It's unquestionably healthier than a glass of carbonated beverage.
For example, a 330ml can of Fanta orange has 15g of sugar, whereas coconut water contains about 8g (depending on the brand). They won't be sugar-free, but they will be naturally occurring, so there will be fewer nasties.
2. Coconut water is... high in antioxidants.
The higher the number of antioxidants in your coconut water, the better - therefore avoid the highly processed and heat-pasteurized varieties.
'Coconut water contains some antioxidant qualities because it is a source of vitamin C,' dietitians say. 'Antioxidants give one electron from their outer shell to stabilize free radicals that might otherwise harm other cells,' says the study.
'I wouldn’t recommend coconut water as your main source. Try focussing on getting your antioxidants from fruits and vegetables of varying colors.'
3. Coconut water is a good source of electrolytes.
Because of its high potassium and electrolyte content, coconut water has become popular as a post-workout drink.
Coconut water restored hydration after exercise better than water, according to small research.
'Coconut water is high in sodium and potassium, two important electrolytes that are lost through perspiration during exercise. Sodium and potassium are essential for the body's fluid equilibrium,' say experts.
A dietitian points out that coconut water has more sugar and calories than the diet version, so she recommends drinking it in moderation – 'and maybe try mixing it with water if you're gasping.'
4. Coconut water may be able to assist you in lowering your cholesterol levels.
Coconut water appears to be effective in lowering cholesterol, according to a preliminary study.
According to a 2006 study, rats that were fed coconut water had a reduced risk of suffering a heart attack.
Sure, the outcomes of animal research aren't always straightforward to generalize to people.
'The majority of the study was done on rats, and it revealed that coconut water had a good effect on lowering cholesterol - however because the research was mostly done on animals, we can't say that the results are the same in humans.'
5. Coconut water may be beneficial to your kidneys.
It's still early in the game. Coconut water, on the other hand, was shown to prevent crystals from adhering to the kidneys and other sections of the urinary system in research on rats with kidney stones.
'Animal studies suggest that coconut water has positive benefits on renal function for up to two weeks after treatment,' Hope explains.
'Although the study was done on a small sample of rats, we cannot assume that the same results apply to humans.'
"I'd recommend anyone with chronic kidney disease avoid consuming large amounts of coconut water. As mentioned before, coconut water has a high potassium content. A large intake of potassium in kidney patients can lead to life-threatening hyperkalemia (too much potassium in the blood)"
Says, Kacie Vavrek a dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
6. Coconut water contains anti-acne properties.
According to Stacey B. Schulman, a certified nutritionist in New York, coconut water can reduce excess oils on your face, reducing acne.
Coconut water, she claims, serves as an anti-inflammatory, detoxifier, and anti-microbial, all of which help to reduce acne outbreaks.
7. Anti-aging effects are found in coconut water.
The vitamins in coconut water have been found to ‘decrease the pace of skin aging, allowing the skin to heal and renew itself more efficiently,' according to New York-based dermatologist Dr. Erin Gilbert.
The proteins present are in charge of promoting cell development and activation.
8. Coconut water may aid in the maintenance of your bones and teeth.
One glass (240g) of coconut water provides 57.6mg of calcium, aka your bones' and teeth' best friend.
'Coconut water does include some calcium, so it will help strengthen teeth and bones,' experts say.
'However, because coconut water isn't as high in calcium as other sources such as dairy, almonds, soya, or fortified goods, it's vital to consume a variety of calcium sources.'
9. Coconut water may be of assistance to you if you're suffering from a hangover.
Have you awoken with the sensation that your last glass of Merlot wasn't the finest decision you've made all week?
Do yourself a favor and drink a huge glass of coconut water if you're feeling a bit hungover. It's high in potassium, which will help you feel more hydrated than the shriveled-up raisin you are right now, and it's non-acidic.
