In Sanskrit, coconuts are called “kalpa vriksha” which means “tree which gives all that is necessary for living”.Coconut water contains a complex blend of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates, antioxidants, enzymes, health enhancing growth hormones, and other important nutrients. Here are some pretty incredible health benefits of coconut water or milk.
Improves Hydration
Coconut water is a great natural electrolyte, and it contains high amounts of potassium. It is also lower in carbohydrates — It only contains about 4.5% carbohydrates, whereas typical sports drinks can contain a 6%-8% carbohydrate concentration.
In a 2002 study aimed to compare water, sports drinks, and coconut water, eight participants were asked to choose one drink out of the group after a workout. Researchers found all three of the beverages to be equally hydrating, but those who drank coconut water experienced significantly less nausea and felt less full. However, most studies have shown that water is still the best choice for hydration.
Lowers Blood Pressure
According to the American Heart Association, adding appropriate amounts of potassium to one’s diet can help maintain or reduce blood pressure because it lessens the effects of sodium. Daily consumption of coconut water (which also contains potassium) could therefore also reduce blood pressure.
In a 2005 study, subjects who drank coconut water daily for two weeks showed a reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 71% and 29% respectively. Subjects who only drank water showed no improvement.
Lowers Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Tests performed on a group of rats found that coconut water helped to decrease their total cholesterol triglyceride levels and LDL cholesterol. More specifically, it reduced the cholesterol found in their hearts.
It was also found that rats that consumed coconut water recovered faster from heart attacks, and it is believed that the electrolytes (potassium, calcium and magnesium) found in the beverage may help maintain heart health.
It is clear that coconut water is a great drink for anyone looking to improve their health. One can counter dehydration, high blood pressure, and cholesterol with moderate consumption. And moderation is key. The high amount of potassium found in coconut water can cause significant damage to several of the body’s internal organs if too much is consumed too quickly.
Balanced pH Levels
There are a number of toxins and compounds in both the environment and foods that can make your body pH levels more acidic. An acidic pH level opens you up to several health problems, including:
- Joint pain
- Excessive mucus buildup
- Chemical sensitivity
- Heartburn
- Reduced libido
- Osteoporosis
- Immune deficiency
- Sciatica
- Weight gain
- Diabetes
In other words, you really don’t want to have an overly acidic body pH level. That’s where coconut juice comes in.
Increased Energy
A glass of coconut water also contains 294 mg of potassium, which helps your cells produce energy.
The average energy drink, for comparison, contains just 117 mg of potassium.
