Hydration is one of the most important things you can do for your body’s overall health. Of course, water is the go-to beverage for health, hydration, and strength. However, coconut water is quickly becoming a popular alternative for many people. This beverage has all of the same benefits as water, plus many more.
Introduction to Coconut Water
Coconut water is the thin liquid that comes from a coconut. Given how many nutrients and health benefits coconuts and coconut oil have, it should not come as a surprise that coconut water is equally good for you. Though similar to water in many ways, it is important to note that coconut water does have just over five calories per ounce.
Like many sports drinks, coconut water has sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Benefits of Coconut Water
If you are curious about coconut water, learning about the health benefits it offers may give you the push you need to give it a try. Since coconut water has about five calories per ounce, it should not be used as a replacement for your daily water intake. You’ll quickly drink far many calories than you should be in any given day.
Keep reading to learn about the most popular health benefits of coconut water:
Fights kidney disease: Kidneys tend to be the first organs that are affected by dehydration. By drinking coconut water every day, you provide your kidneys with the hydration they need to function properly and avoid the development of kidney stones.
Replenishes electrolytes: Sports drinks aim to replenish your electrolytes while hydrating you. Coconut water has significantly higher levels of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, making it an excellent solution for extreme exertion or dehydration.
Improves energy: The minerals and nutrients found in coconut water naturally improve your energy and mood, which is especially helpful if you are using coconut water for fitness activities.
Supports weight loss: Coconut water can be fairly rich. Just a little bit of this drink can make you feel full and hold off your appetite for several hours. Because of this, coconut water can help you lose weight.
Supports digestion: The fiber level of coconut water is very high. If you struggle with constipation, gas, bloating, or other digestive issues, coconut water may be the solution you need.
Strengthens immune system: Coconut water is a naturally detoxifying solution. Drinking it every day allows your body to flush out bacteria and toxins more effectively, allowing your immune system to work more efficiently.
When to Drink Coconut Water Instead of Water
You may want to swap eight ounces of water for eight ounces of coconut water each day. This minimizes the caloric impact of coconut water but still allows you to enjoy the health benefits.
You may also want to reach for coconut water if you are spending a lot of time in the heat. Sweating can deplete your body’s store of electrolytes, which coconut water can help with.
Coconut water is a great health beverage that you should work into your daily diet for maximum benefits.
Sources:
http://www.realfarmacy.com/coconut-water-benefits/
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/8-benefits-coconut-water-you-didnt-know-about.html