Benefits of Coconut Water

Derived from the wonder fruit itself, coconut water is the sweet and nutritious drink that is found inside the kernel of the coconut. This is mostly tapped from the young, healthy, and green coconuts, which are considered to be more nutritious.

Coconut water is mostly consumed as a natural refreshment. It contains a sweet and nutty taste. Due to the increasing demand, It is available as a packed drink in the market and is mostly known as a refreshing tropical drink. The taste and refreshing factors aside, coconut water is mostly consumed for the health benefits it delivers.

Health Benefits of Coconut Water

Coconut water is naturally fat-free and does not contain cholesterol. Athletes are daily consumers of this tropical drink. It helps them hydrate the body and it is also full of electrolytes such as Potassium, Sodium, Magnesium, and Calcium. It also contains sugar but in much fewer amounts when compared to most sports drinks and other fruit juices. It is ideal for adults and children as a refreshing and less sweet drink. According to most dietitians, consuming plain coconut water is healthier than flavoured coconut water which is similar to another sugary drink.

Hydration at its Best

Providing the body with the required amounts of water is known as Hydration. This is one of the main benefits expected by coconut water consumers. The natural electrolytes present in coconut water position it among sports drinks. Since it does not contain any artificial colourings, sweeteners, or added sugars, it is considered a natural sports drink. Its electrolytes keep the water balanced both inside and outside the cells. They direct the water into areas that are in the body that need it the most.

Rich with Antioxidants

The metabolism of the human body results in creating certain unstable molecules. These molecules are called “Free Radicals”. They are responsible for stress and injuries. More free radicals result in more trouble including oxidative stress which can damage cells and increase disease risk. (1) Coconut water contains antioxidants that modify free radicals to a stage where they can no longer cause harm. (2)

Helps Fighting Diabetes

Coconut water consumption can reduce blood sugar levels and improve overall health. The high potassium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin C and L-arginine content of the drink further support improvements in insulin activity. (3) Insulin controls the blood glucose levels by signalling the liver and muscle and fat cells to take glucose from the blood. Lower blood sugar levels result in good diabetic control. Although, it has to be noted that flavoured coconut water will not support this matter. These benefits can only be enjoyed through the consumption of unflavoured, fresh coconut water

Helps to Prevent Kidney Stones

It has been proved that drinking enough fluids can help prevent the formation of kidney stones. Most doctors advise their patients to drink more water than usual to address this condition. But according to some studies, coconut water is a better choice. Kidney stones are formed when compounds including calcium and oxalate combine to form crystals in urine. If untreated, these crystals form stones. (4) Coconut water prevents these stones from sticking into the kidneys and other parts of the urinary tract. It also reduces the rate of crystals formed in urine. This is a result of the beverage’s response to high oxalate levels in urine. (5)

Benefits of Coconut Water for Skin

Just like most food and beverage products we consume, the nutritional value of coconut water can have effects on visible body parts other than inner organs. The skin is one such part of the body that collaborates positively with coconut water consumption.

Helps to Treat Dry and Sensitive Skin

When treating skin, coconut water can be drunk or even applied topically. Consider it as a light moisturizer. The multiple sugars and amino acids help the skin to nourish and leave behind any dryness. One of the best ways to apply the liquid typically is by dabbing the skin with a coconut-water filled cotton ball and then rinsing it off. While it leaves the skin hydrated, the vitamin C found in coconut water will help it brighten up.

Helps to Fight Acne

Coconut water contains antimicrobial properties. For starters, it will help to leave acne at bay. Although it does not have the power to heal acne, it will help to speed up the healing process. Covering the face with a mask made by mixing coconut water with turmeric can support this cause. Keep this mask on for 10 minutes and completely wash it off.

Reduces Signs of Aging

Coconut water contains vitamin C, and B. These vitamins act as antioxidants that help the skin to get rid of any minor tissue damages and scars. In the battle against anti-ageing effects, Vitamin C, in particular, helps to brighten up the skin and stimulate collagen production. Coconut water also includes proteins called cytokines, which are a class of phytohormones that reduce the signs of ageing in our skin.