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A Thirst-Quencher, Coconut Water Is A Healthy Drink Too
A rich source of potassium, coconut water has health and beauty benefits
It makes for a great beach drink. Some prefer having it after a gruelling workout. But, it is time you consider coconut water as a health and wellness drink too.
A thirst-quencher
Essentially, coconut water is the juice found inside a coconut. Typically, young, green coconuts are preferred over the mature, brown varieties because their juice tastes better and is also greater in quantity.
A great drink to replenish and recharge your body, coconut water is a rich source of potassium. While nothing beats a glass of plain water as a thirst-quencher, coconut water is definitely a healthier alternative when compared to carbonated and artificially sweetened drinks.
The health factor
Coconut water is a rich source of potassium, an essential mineral which may have a role to play in lowering blood pressure. Potassium is key to the efficient skeletal and muscular functions of your body. According to an article on Harvard Health Publishing, “A standard 12-ounce serving of coconut water contains about 700 milligrams of potassium, the equivalent of almost two bananas.”
Jenna Hope, a registered nutrition consultant, tells Women’s Health that “coconut water is a source of Vitamin C and so does contain some antioxidant properties.” Hope, however, suggests you get your antioxidants from fruits and veggies, and doesn’t recommend coconut water as the primary source.
Coconut water has some beauty benefits too and can help acne-prone skin. Registered dietician Stacey B. Schulam tells Women’s Health: “Coconut water can decrease the excess oils on your skin which reduces breakouts. (It) acts as an anti-inflammatory, a detoxifier and an antimicrobial–all of which work to decrease incidences of acne.”
Choose the right coconut water
While coconut water is definitely a low-calorie drink, it does contain sugar. Keep an eye out for the sugar content in your coconut water. Registered nutritionist Jo Lewin in an article on ‘The health benefits of coconut water’ for BBC Good Food recommends, “When reading a label, look per 100g/ml. For a product to be low-sugar, it should be less than 2.5g per 100g/ml. For it to be low-salt, under 0.3g or 0.1g of sodium is ideal.” Also, avoid flavoured varieties as they may have higher sugar content.