Coconut water is ideal for replenishing fluids after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting, thanks to its high electrolyte content. It is also a great drink to rehydrate and nourish muscles after exercise.
1. Electrolytes
Coconut water is rich in natural electrolytes, such as sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Electrolytes are minerals that are needed to balance the amount of water in the body.
Sometimes exercise or dehydration can cause an electrolyte imbalance, which is why sports drinks containing electrolytes are so popular. Electrolyte imbalances can occur when the amount of water in your body changes suddenly, such as after vomiting or diarrhea.
Coconut water is lower in sugar than most sports drinks and contains carbohydrates, which help improve muscle function. Coconut water is more beneficial than plain water for rehydration after exercise because of its high electrolyte content.
2. Lower blood pressure
One cup of coconut water has 400 milligrams (mg) of potassium. A diet rich in potassium can lower blood pressure and support heart health. The electrolytes in coconut water can also stabilize blood pressure.
3. Protection against free radicals
The antioxidants in coconut water have been shown to protect the body against free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage DNA and cause cancer.
4. Prevent kidney stones
Coconut water may help prevent kidney stones by removing excess crystal-forming minerals from the body.
5. Stronger bones and teeth
The combination of phosphate and calcium in coconut water helps to strengthen bones and teeth.
6. Stabilize blood sugar levels
The magnesium in coconut water may help control blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Analysis of Coconut Water
Coconut water is considered nature's sports drink because of its high vitamin C and potassium content. It is also low in calories and fat, with one cup of 100% coconut water containing:
Calories: 44
Sodium: 64 milligrams (mg)
Carbohydrates: 10.4 g
Sugar: 9.6 g
Protein: 0.5 g
Vitamin C: 24.3 mg
Potassium: 404 mg
When Coconut Water May Be Helpful
Because coconut water is so good at hydrating and replenishing minerals, consider using it in the following cases:
- After exercise
- On hot days
- After being in the sauna
- During colonoscopy preparation
- If you have chronic diarrhea
- After being infected with a stomach virus
- To replenish fluids if dehydrated due to illness
