Coconut water has long been used in tropical areas for its remarkable advantages.
It is prepared from young green coconuts, and each nut contains 200-1000 mL (about 1-4 cups) of coconut water.
This organic beverage has a low calorie count and a delightful and refreshing taste. Furthermore, young coconut water contains more vital nutrients than mature coconut water.
This nutritious beverage is high in vitamin C, antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, B-complex vitamins, and minerals such as zinc, manganese, iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Its micronutrients boost immunity, and plant hormones known as cytokines have anti-cancer, anti-aging, and anti-thrombotic capabilities.
Choose fresh and pure coconut water over bottled ones for the best results. You may also add it to smoothies and consume it on a daily basis. The following are the most significant health benefits of this nutritious drink:
Treats Headaches
Headaches and migraines are frequently caused by dehydration. This drink is high in electrolytes and hydrates the body. It is high in magnesium, which is particularly beneficial because magnesium shortage sometimes causes migraines. As a result, coconut water lowers migraine attacks.
Regulates Blood Sugar
This nutritious beverage is high in amino acids and dietary fibre, which help to manage blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. It is extremely beneficial in the case of diabetes. It also increases circulation, cures numerous symptoms such as numbness, and lowers the risk of atherosclerosis.
A 2012 study published in the Food and Function journal evaluated the effects of coconut water and discovered that mature coconut water lowers blood glucose levels and avoids oxidative stress.
Lowers Blood Pressure
This drink lowers blood pressure because of its magnesium, vitamin C, and potassium content. Potassium also counteracted the negative effects of sodium. A study published in the West Indian Medical Journal (2005) confirmed that this water controls hypertension.
To control high blood pressure, drink a cup of coconut water twice a day. Fresh coconut water is always preferable than bottled variants because they contain more sodium.
Rehydrates the Body
This drink is great for quenching thirst, especially during the heat. Because it is high in electrolytes, it hydrates the body and reduces fluid loss during diarrhoea, vomiting, and excessive perspiration.
It also has a lot of energy because it is high in carbs. Because of these qualities, it is recommended to consume it after exercise. It is also gentle on the stomach, thus it can be used to treat a variety of digestive ailments such as acid reflux, indigestion, and gastroenteritis.
Acts as Natural Diuretic
Coconut water acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and flow, detoxifying the system and preventing urinary tract infections. Potassium alkalinizes the urine and, if present, dissolves kidney stones.
For optimal results, add some sea salt to it and drink it once or twice a day. Its potent antibacterial activities help to prevent and treat urinary tract infections. However, if you have excessive potassium levels or suffer from certain kidney problems, you should avoid drinking coconut water.
Supports heart health
Coconut water is fat and cholesterol free, therefore it promotes heart health by lowering low-density lipoprotein, also known as “bad” cholesterol or LDL, and increasing high-density lipoprotein, or “good” cholesterol or HDL levels, lowering the risk of heart disease dramatically.
According to a 2012 study published in the Medicinal Food Journal, both tender and mature coconut water have beneficial effects on lipid metabolism, preventing the growth of total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), triglycerides, and LDL.
Furthermore, because coconut water has anti-platelet, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities and promotes blood circulation, it protects against plaque formation in the arteries, lowering the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Promotes Weight Loss
Coconut water is useful for weight loss because it is low in calories and aids digestion. It also contains several useful enzymes that aid digestion and fat metabolism.
It is also high in potassium, which helps with sodium balance, because high sodium levels cause water retention. As a result, it flushes out excess water as well as toxins stored in the body.
To reduce weight, drink an 8-ounce cup of coconut water three to four times a week. Drink in moderation, as it may have the reverse effect and deliver extra calories.
Relieves Hangovers
This drink is a fantastic hangover cure. Alcohol dehydrates the body and causes nausea and morning sickness. Coconut water is abundant in electrolytes and hydrates the body, therefore it is extremely soothing.
Furthermore, it has excellent antioxidant capabilities and helps to minimise oxidative stress caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Prepare a smoothie in the morning with two glasses of unsweetened coconut water and ripe mangoes, two fresh mint leaves, half a glass of ice, and 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Decelerates the Aging Process
Because the cytokines in this water have significant anti-aging effects on tissues and cells, it helps to prevent age-related illnesses and degenerative disorders.
In addition, coconut water moisturises and nourishes the skin, leaving it silky and smooth. Make a paste with a cup of this liquid and 2 tablespoons of sandalwood powder.
Next, apply this paste to your skin, let it dry, and then rinse with water. This will revitalise and improve the skin’s health.
Balances pH Levels
Stress, contemporary lifestyles, pollutants, processed meals, and sugar are all elements that contribute to the body’s acidic environment.
Acidic pH levels result in decreased energy, weariness, and the inability of the body to absorb necessary minerals and vitamins. Coconut water, on the other hand, alkalinizes the body and restores pH balance.
Additional tips:
- This beverage is not recommended in the case of nut allergies
- Coconut water may cause stomach bloating and mild stomach upset
- In the case of kidneys dysfunction, patients should consult their doctor before the consumption of coconut water.
- Its consumption is not recommended at least 2 weeks before or after a surgery, as it may have an impact on the blood pressure