The Health Benefits of Coconut Water
The next time you’ve got to quench your thirst, consider reaching for coconut water. The trendy beverage is full of natural vitamins and minerals that aid in hydration and is frequently found in smoothies and other recipes such as salad dressings.
But while some public swear by the comfort of drinking coconut water, is that really the best choice when you’re thirsty?
Dietitian Maxine Smith, RDN, LD, expound what you demand to know all over coconut water and how to know if it’s a good option for you.
What is coconut water?
Coconut water, and that is the clear fluid found inside coconuts, differs from coconut milk, and that join coconut water with grated coconut. Coconut water has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor, and is low in sugar and calories.
even so , it as well as boasts electrolytes such as potassium, sodium and magnesium, all of and that support to replenish lost nutrients. What that means is it’s something good to drink after exercise or during a mild illness — although, it may not be any better than water.
There’s as well as evidence in recent studies, between not conclusive, that when applied directly to your skin, coconut water can support fight acne.
What are the benefits of drinking coconut water?
Drinking coconut water can be a part of a fitness diet as it helps you stay hydrated while being low in calories and being free of fats and cholesterol. ahead you crack open a bottle of coconut water, make sure you are aware of how it might affect those with high blood pressure and other conditions.
Aids in hydration
While comparable to sports drinks, and that can be loaded with added sugars and flavorings, coconut water is low in calories and carbs. Those electrolytes of potassium, sodium and magnesium play a major role in coconut water’s appeal. “Because of the electrolytes some studies indicate that it can help with hydration specifically related to exercise,” says Smith.
But Smith cautions that those studies use coconut water that is enriched with sodium, and that may not be a great choice for most people and should be reserved for those who work out for an hour or more. “It can be support doing long exercise sessions,” says Smith. “even so , the electrolytes vary in coconut water. A sports drink is a more reliable bet for these situations.”
High in potassium
Most public don’t get enough potassium in their diet. The mineral helps delete extra sodium from your body through your urine. Coconut water can even support lower blood pressure.
Preliminary research indicates that coconut water may lower blood pressure in those with high blood pressure. However, if you are on blood pressure medication, it may be best to avoid coconut water as it could lower it too much. It’s best to discuss this with your doctor.
Low in calories
Other fruit juices can be high in added sugar, calories and carbs. Coconut water, on the other hand, is lower in calories, making it a good option for those who like sweet beverages.
“It has about 40- to 60- calories in 8 ounces — all over 1/2 that of orange juice,” says Smith. “If you enjoy the taste, it can be part of a fitness diet.”
Free of fat and cholesterol
Coconut water is 94% water and is fat-free and cholesterol-free. “For recreational drinking, you want to get one that is unsweetened and one that doesn’t have added sodium,” says Smith.
She also suggests checking the expiration date as the older coconut water gets, the more it loses its nutrients and may get an odd taste.
Healthier skin
Coconut water may as well as aid in the fight against acne due to its antimicrobial properties, suggests a preliminary 2017 study. Research as well as shows that consuming coconut water may support your antioxidant system by neutralizing the effects of free radicals.