5 Reasons You Should be Drinking Coconut Water More

It's hydrating, refreshing, and most importantly, it's natural. Through the years, coconut water has given us lots of health-related benefits; Tatler lists some of them below

Perhaps one of nature's best gifts to mankind is the coconut tree. Its leaves are big enough to be used as shelter, its shells and husks are strong enough to be utilised as scrubbing tools, while its trunk is durable enough to be turned into home accessories or furniture.

But the benefits that people can get from this tall tree does not stop there; apparently, the water it produces also provides health-related benefits.

1. Good source of nutrients

Above (Photo: Nipanan Lifestyle/Unsplash)

Coconut water contains 94 per cent of water and very little fat, with it comes 15 grams of carbs, four per cent of calcium and magnesium, two per cent phosphorus, 15 per cent of potassium, and just eight grams of sugar.

It is also believed that one cup or 240 ml of coconut water contains 60 per cent of calories.

2. May lower blood sugar

Above (Photo: Tash Guimond/Unsplash)

According to a 2015 study, coconut water can lower blood sugar levels and improve other health markers in animals with diabetes. The research has tested rats with diabetes and treated them with coconut water. The said study also found that the rats showed lower levels of haemoglobin A1c which indicates long-term blood sugar control.

3. Prevents kidney stones

Above (Photo: Tijana Drndarski/Unsplash)

People suffering from painful kidney stones can find solace in coconut water. Apparently, the fruit helps increase urination of potassium, chloride, and citrate in individuals and keep the likelihood of stones low. Despite its promising benefits, various scientists suggest more research about the effectiveness of coconut water in eliminating kidney stones.

4. Contains antioxidant properties

Above (Photo: Xiaoyu Li/Unsplash)

When people develop too many free radicals or unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress, many of their cells become damaged; good thing, fruits like coconut help supply antioxidants to help the body regenerate in a natural way. In a 2012 research on animals, coconut water has shown a high amount of antioxidants that helped modify free radicals so they no longer cause harm.

5. Can help in hydration

Above (Photo: Louis Hansel/Unsplash)

If you're looking for a healthier substitute for soda or flavoured juice, consider trying coconut water instead. Not only is it hydrating, but it also has a sweet aftertaste that is a lot healthier than man-made juice.

One study even proved that coconut water can restore hydration and replenish electrolytes (minerals that maintain the body's fluid balance) lost during exercise or heavy work.

Topics

coconut water healthy

Tatler Asia