Coconut water contains electrolytes, potassium, magnesium, antioxidants and soluble fiber. These are all ideal for people who are dehydrated and need quick energy. With low calories, coconut water can help the body feel full of vitality without causing weight gain.
Nutritionist Mohini Dongre from Narayana Gurugram Hospital (India) said that the potassium content in coconut water can help regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease. In addition, antioxidants in coconut water help neutralize free radicals, boost immunity and reduce oxidative stress.
However, Dr. Par meet Kaur, Head of Nutrition at Marengo Asia Gurugram Hospital (India), noted that some studies on the effects of coconut water on the body have been conducted. In many cases, there is a 100 mg/dL increase in blood sugar levels within just 30 minutes of drinking coconut water.
Although coconut water contains potassium, an electrolyte that is good for the heart and blood pressure, people with diabetes should not use it regularly. It is best to exercise first and then drink in moderation, says Dr. Par meet Kaur.
According to Dr. Par meet Kaur, the impact of coconut water on blood sugar will depend on the dosage and health status of each person.
Coconut water contains natural sugars like glucose and fructose, with about 6-7g of sugar in each cup of 240ml, Par meet Kaur analyzed.
Although it has a low glycemic index (GI), which means a slow increase in blood sugar, consuming too much can still cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
For people with diabetes, doctors recommend being cautious in their portion sizes and including coconut water in their diet in a controlled way.
"Using it at a moderate level may not have a big impact, but overusing it can completely spike blood sugar," Dr. Kaur emphasized.
