Health benefits of coconut water

Coconut water. Image via pixabay

Coconut water comes from the fruit (coconut) of the coconut tree. Cocos nucifera is the scientific name of the coconut tree. Have you ever wondered why some people love to drink coconut water more so when they are sick? They drink it because it helps them feel refreshed and hydrated!

There are numerous health benefits that one can gain from drinking coconut water. This is so because coconut water contains many essential nutrients such as useful vitamins and minerals that are necessary for us to survive. Anyone at any age can drink it. You can drink right from the coconut or you can purchase it in bottles from supermarkets. Your first choice should be the fresh coconut water.

Coconut water contains:

natural sugars (carbohydrates): fructose and glucose
electrolytes: potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium
B vitamins
Vitamin C
Iron
Protein
and lots more

Health benefits of coconut water

Some health benefits of coconut water
Coconut water is used: 


Whenever the body is dehydrated, this water is excellent at reviving it. Why do you think this is so? Well, it's because  it contains electrolytes!

Two examples of ways that the body can become dehydrated:

Body fluids are lost due to diarrhea and can result in dehydration. Drinking coconut water during and after diarrhea will hydrate your body. This water will provide energy also because of the natural sugars found in it.

After a long workout. Sweat results from exercise and your body's electrolytes are lost this way. Drinking coconut water after a workout will replenish them.



- as an immune system booster
Coconut water contains Vitamin C which helps to boost the immune system.

- to balance the body's pH
We won't feel well if our body's pH is acidic. Our pH can get acidic because of the food and drink that we consume every day (eg. processed foods, soda, etc.). Coconut water helps us to achieve an alkaline pH because of the electrolytes found in it.

- to reduce blood pressure
Blood pressure is regulated by sodium in our bodies. The kidneys can either excrete or retain this sodium.
A decrease in potassium in our bodies will result in an increase in sodium retention by the kidneys, which will consequently lead to high blood pressure. On the other hand, an increase in potassium in our bodies will result in sodium excretion by the kidneys, which will consequently lead to a lower blood pressure.
Coconut water is high in potassium and this is why it helps lower blood pressure.


- to provide B vitamins that the body needs

- as a blood sugar regulator

- to achieve weight loss
By simply increasing the body's metabolism. An increased metabolism will make you burn more calories and thus will result in weight loss.

- to provide energy
The natural sugars found in the coconut water is used by the body for energy.
It's a healthier alternative to sports drinks.

Coconut water has many health benefits, it's delicious and low in calorie. What are you waiting for? Drink some coconut water today!