Hello my dear readers, coconut water is said to be the magical drink! I was a bit skeptical about this so I decided to try it out myself. I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy such a refreshing drink it irked my curiosity so much I immediately started researching the benefits of it! Lo and behold I found a plethora of information which I will be sharing with you today.
Not to be confused with coconut milk (which is a concoction of coconut water and freshly grated coconut), coconut water is all-natural, clear, sweet liquid with a nutty taste, it’s found inside young, green coconuts. Fresh coconut water has not been pasteurized, therefore it contains enzymes that help to detoxify and repair the body.
Devotees of coconut water frequently praise its ability to keep the body well-hydrated. Scientists say the benefit is all about potassium (it contains more than a banana) and its naturally occurring electrolytes, necessary for proper hydration. Electrolytes are also necessary for proper muscle contraction and to generate energy in the body, along with the added benefits of having no fat or cholesterol and not many calories. Loved by sports gurus and superstars, coconut water is the hot new health drink.
A taste for coconut water originated in the tropics, places like Nigeria, Brazil and India, where palm trees thrive and locals have been drinking the fresh clear water from young coconuts for ages, dubbing it “miracle water.” It must be duly noted that if you medically need to restrict your potassium intake, avoid coconut water.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT WATER TO HUMAN KIND
1. Aids 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.
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. The Ultimate Hangover Remedy.
Next time you overdo it and drink more than your belly can handle, consume 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. Facilitates 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.
5. 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. In addition, the sodium count is only 25 mg, which is relatively low compared to the 41 and 20 mg found in sports drinks and energy drinks respectively.
6. Reduces Blood Pressure.
In many instances, a disproportionate level of electrolytes can result in high blood pressure. Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of each, it can be used as a balancing mechanism. Doctors recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day to foster the balance of these electrolytes, this I must say is a tried and tested recommendation that I can testify to.
7. 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.
8. Compatible with Human Blood.
Since it is isotonic to human plasma, coconut water can be used in extreme emergencies to quickly rehydrate the human body if administered intravenously. It is not uncommon for the drink to be used to save human lives in countries were saline water was difficult to come by.
PITFALLS TO AVOID:
When searching for the perfect fresh coconut to enjoy, be sure to steer clear of those that have a hard brown shell as this is an indication that it is mature. Instead, look for those that are young and green on the exterior as they usually contain a large supply of the actual coconut water substance. To test it out, simply shake the coconut up and down to gauge how much liquid it contains. Happy drinking!!
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