5 Benefits Of Coconut Water

Many Americans have seen, tasted or at the least heard of the benefits of coconut water—which comes from the meat of mature (brown and hairy) coconuts. However, not many people are aware of the young green coconut, or the Thai coconut.

While they are really the same food—depending on which region it comes from—the green version is younger and comes with subtle, but important differences. While the mature coconuts can be great for making coconut cream or coconut milk, they often have much less water. Also, the water in mature coconuts tend to be much more salty tasting, which many people may not like.

On the other hand, the water from fresh, young coconuts is much tastier and the ultimate hydrating beverage—I like to refer to it as Mother Nature’s Sports Drink. However, this magical food/drink is more than that, it happens to come with a collection of health benefits.

Here are 5 of the best benefits of coconut water:

Coconut water is not just refreshing, it is comes with a lot of nutritional perks. Here are just a few of the benefits of coconut water explained:

1. Hydration

Coconut water has electrolytes—many, in fact. These essential minerals are crucial for proper hydration. Without minerals, water would not absorb into the bloodstream and make it to the cells. In fact, coconut water is so hydrating it’s even been used as an IV in emergencies.

2. Boosts energy

As a natural source of B vitamins, coconut water can increase energy levels. B vitamins are very important for energy production and metabolism. Consuming raw coconut water is a great way to improve the metabolism and produce more energy, naturally.

3. Cleansing

Dilution is the solution to pollution, as Paul Chek says. Inadequate hydration makes it difficult for the liver, kidneys and digestive tract to expel waste. One of the most effective and simple ways to cleanse the body and aid it in its natural detoxification functions is to stay hydrated.

As mentioned, as a very hydrating beverage, coconut water is ideal for replacing old fluids in the body and removing toxins. Additionally, specific minerals found in coconut water; such as potassium, can help balance the body’s electrolytes that are particularly thrown off during times of stress, exercise or from a high-sodium diet.

4. Regulates blood sugar & lowers blood pressure

Studies show that coconut water from young coconuts actually mitigates oxidative stress in the body. The results suggest that, coconut water consumption can prevent and even reverse high blood pressure caused by a diet high in fructose (fruit sugar). It also inhibits lipid peroxidation and improves insulin sensitivity by up-regulating antioxidant reserves in the body.

5. Stress reduction

Another one of the benefits of coconut water is that it is particularly rich in the mineral magnesium, which is known to produce a relaxing and calming effect in the body due to it’s role in activating the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest system). Magnesium is depleted during times of stress and can lead to physical muscle tension in the body.

Consuming coconut water can replenish magnesium levels and therefore help smooth tension in the body. This also includes our organs, particularly our hearts, which can lower the risk of heart attack. Consuming coconut water daily is a great way to get more magnesium into the diet.

Where to get the best coconuts

When looking for coconut water, the best is going to be direct from the source as opposed to canned coconut water. Canned coconut water is often pasteurized, which can concentrate the sugars and destroy minerals. If you are really lucky, you can get some coconuts fresh off the tree! If you are ever visiting Florida or the Islands of Bali, Costa Rica, Hawaii or any tropical country, be on the lookout for yellow and green coconuts—they are often sold on the sides of the roads even.

You can also find young Thai coconuts in popular health food stores these days and Asian Markets. There are also a few companies that have made raw coconut water available in bottles; these are great options as well. At the very least, you can talk to your local grocer and ask them if they can order them for you, chances are they can! So go on and drink up some fresh coconut water!