Health Benefits of Drinking Coconut Water

Fresh Coconut Water

Coconut water, also known as coconut juice, is the translucent, or semi-clear, liquid inside a young coconut.In recent years, many athletes have turned to coconut water as an alternative to sugary sports beverages, such as Gatorade. It has also grown in popularity as a go-to electrolyte drink for people with a stomach bug or severe cases of dehydration.

Health Benefits:

Most of the health benefits of coconut water are due to its high levels of electrolytes, which include potassium, calcium and magnesium. For those who are low in these essential minerals, coconut water can be a healthy choice. For others, drinking coconut water isn’t likely to be more beneficial than drinking a glass of plain water.

Low in Calories

Coconut water is a suitable option for higher calorie drinks. Coconut water provides only 60 calories in a glass. Most beverages (like sodas or juice) have more sugar and carbs than coconut water. There are also more minerals and electrolytes in coconut water. The primary is potassium.

Coconut water can thus provide refreshment with lower calories than a sugary beverage. However, you have to be mindful when getting packed coconut water. Make sure to be careful about beverage selection and read labels. Avoid drinks with added sugar. They are no different from other sugary beverages. Instead, go for plain coconut water.

May Lower Blood Sugar

Coconut water may manage blood sugar management in diabetic animals. But similar studies on humans are lacking. Nevertheless, coconut water also contains magnesium. Therefore, it is another benefit of coconut water.

Magnesium may help improve insulin sensitivity. In addition, it will decrease blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.

That said, it is crucial to remember that coconut water has carbohydrates. However, our body converts carbs into sugars. If you have diabetes, talk to your health care professional before including coconut water in your diet.

Aids in Bone Health

There are about 19.2 milligrams of calcium in one cup of coconut water, according to a sample analyzed by the USDA.  Many people don’t consume the amount of calcium needed, and insufficient calcium levels can lead to issues such as low bone density, bone loss, and weaker bones that can break more easily. 

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Prevents Kidney Stone

Kidney stones develop when calcium, oxalate, and other crystals form urine crystals. These crystals can further combine to make small stones. Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated to avoid kidney stones. Plain water is a great option, but coconut water may also work as a great defence.

Prevents Constipation

Coconut water has magnesium. This mineral helps in digestion and keeps the gut healthy.

Removes Hangover

Coconut water is best to remove hangover. Gulp down a glass of coconut water next time you have a hangover. It’s high in potassium and is non-acidic. So, it won’t upset your stomach and soothe your hangover.

Good For Heart

Coconut water may lower total cholesterol, bad cholesterol and TG. As a bonus, it raises high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) levels. High levels of high-density lipoprotein can decrease the risk of heart disease. All these properties of coconut water may protect the heart.

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