We’ve mentioned Coconut water in several articles, from our guide to hydration here, to top items you should be buying at the grocery store here, to the health benefits of coconut milk here.
Here are Health Fitness Revolution‘s top Health Benefits of Drinking Coconut Water:
- Good Alternative to Sports Drinks: Sports drinks are full of sugar and other chemicals, so coconut water is a great, natural alternative to getting electrolytes into your system. A study published in the journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition in 2012 found that coconut water was just as effective at rehydrating after a tough workout when compared to a sports drink.
- Prevents dehydration: coconut water maintains the body’s fluid levels and its potassium content helps maintain water pressure within cells and blood.
- It’s Almost Fat Free: Coconut water is virtually fat free, with just 0.5 grams per cup. It also provides a small dose of healthy omega fatty acids, with 4.8 milligrams of omega-6 fat.
- Fuel for Brain and Muscles: Due to its electrolytes, coconut water improves nervous system functioning and nerve transmission.
- Full of Potassium: There are 600 milligrams of potassium in a serving of coconut water, more than what’s found in a medium-sized banana, and 17% of the recommended daily amount. This helps prevent cramps and spasms in the muscles.
- Healthy Heart and Kidney: Reduces the risk of hypertension and strokes and helps prevent or resolve kidney stones.
- Low Glycemic Index: With an estimated glycemic load of just 3, the water found in coconut is a good alternative to drinks that have added sugar and could cause a spike in your blood sugar when you drink them.
- Anti-aging: Contains compounds (cytokinins) that protect cells from aging and cancer.
- Low Sodium: You will find some sodium in the coconut — about 250 milligrams per cup — and that’s part of what makes it hydrating as it replaces sodium lost through sweat.
- 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.
- 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.
