Coconut water is the nearly colorless liquid contained within a coconut.
Though it used to be referred to as the milk of coconut, it
is not to be confused with the white milky liquid extracted from coconut
meat.
In its natural form, coconut water is a light, mildly sweet
drink with a very slight nutty taste and astringent feel. Coconut water
from fresh, tender coconuts is the best, but it is now available
bottled, with or without added sugar and flavors. The best, of course,
is the 100% natural, with no added sugar or other preservatives or
coloring.
It is the ultimate thirst quencher and offers a tasty alternative to
water. This pure liquid is packed with nutrients that yield an array of
health benefits.
Here are ten benefits from this amazing tropical gift from nature:
1. It is rich in nutrients
Unlike any other beverage on the market, coconut water contains five
essential electrolytes that are present in the human body. These
include: calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium. Because
of its unique composition, coconut water can be enjoyed by individuals
with varying medical conditions.
2. Picture-perfect skin
For those with acne or other blemishes on the surface of the skin,
topical application of coconut water can go a great distance as it has
the ability to clear up and subsequently tone the skin. It also
moisturizes the skin from within if ingested orally and eliminates large
amounts of oil. This explains why products such as facial creams,
shampoos, conditioners and lotions that contain traces of coconut
extract are more effective.
3. It is a perfect hangover remedy
Next time you overdo it and drink more than you can handle, drink
coconut water to settle your stomach. It will also replace those
essential electrolytes that exit the body if you experience bouts of
frequent urination and vomiting.
4. It aids digestion
If you constantly encounter difficulty during the digestion process,
coconut water may provide a source of relief. Because of its high
concentration of fiber, it aids in the prevention of indigestion and
reduces the occurrence of acid reflux.
According to the traditional wisdom of ancient yoga practitioners,
bowel regularity is the foundation of physical health. Food entering the
body contains many indigestible and undesirable elements, including
toxins. They should be eliminated as soon as possible.
Any obstruction in this natural process can result in the
accumulation of these toxic substances in the digestive tract. The
origin of most diseases can be traced back to our gut. The soluble fiber
in coconut water helps regulate bowel movements. In fact, many yogis
(practitioners of the traditional health system of yoga) start their day
with fresh coconut water.
5. It boosts hydration
The ingredients in coconut water are way more effective at hydrating
the human body than those of sports and energy drinks. During rigorous
exercise or extended periods of physical activity, the human body loses
mineral-rich fluids. However, coconut water serves as an excellent
replacement medium with 294 mg of potassium and 5 mg of natural sugar
per glass, unlike your favorite sports drink that only contains half of
the potassium content and five times the amount of processed sugar.
People who have lost a lot of blood are given coconut water, so are
those who are dehydrated because of frequent vomiting and diarrhea.
Coconut water is usually well-tolerated by people who suffer from nausea
and aversion to food due to metallic taste in the mouth. It is often
given to women who cannot keep down any food during the first trimester
of pregnancy. It is also common for those who undertake severe fasting
for extended periods to break it with a drink of coconut water.
6. Reduces blood pressure
Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of electrolytes, it
can be used as a balancing mechanism. In some instances, it is
recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day to
foster the balance of these electrolytes.
Every cup of coconut water contains about 0.283 mg. of arginine. It
is not a lot, but still sufficient for an appreciable reduction in blood
pressure when you regularly drink one or two glasses. Even if you do
not have hypertension, it is a great idea to drink a glass of coconut
water before bed to improve your blood circulation while you sleep.
7. It helps in weight-loss efforts
The fat content in coconut water is extremely low, so generous
quantities can be consumed without the fear of immediately packing on
the pounds. It also suppresses the appetite and makes you feel full
because of its rich nature.
8. Coconut water helps kidney function
Most diets are high in sodium and low in potassium. Sodium puts a lot
of stress on the kidneys because it promotes fluid retention. When
sodium is high, kidneys have to work harder to eliminate excess water.
On the other hand, potassium acts as a diuretic, helping the kidneys
flush out water.
A single cup of coconut water can provide enough potassium to keep
the kidneys in good health. Its diuretic effect is beneficial in
preventing kidney stones. The arginine in coconut water increases blood
circulation to all organs including kidney.
