For centuries, people in tropical regions have known about the incredible benefits of coconut water. This is especially true of young, still green coconuts. It is a delicious, refreshing and low-calorie natural drink. Did you know that green coconut water contains more nutrients than mature coconut water? Coconut water is a cocktail of antioxidants, amino acids and enzymes. It also contains vitamin B, vitamin C and minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese and zinc!
Micronutrients found in coconut water help strengthen the immune system. In addition, cytokines, plant hormones found in this healthy drink, have anti-aging and anti-cancer properties. They are also considered a natural antithrombotic. To get all the health benefits of this drink, it is best to choose fresh, pure bottled coconut water. You can drink several glasses a day or add it to smoothie recipes.
10 health benefits of coconut water that few people know about:
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Benefits for athletes
Coconut water is 95% water and therefore helps in rehydration. It is also rich in minerals: potassium (208 mg per 100 ml), calcium (15.5 mg per 100 ml), necessary for muscle and bone function, magnesium (15.5 mg per 100 ml), which can help prevent muscle cramps and sugar (2.2 g per 100 g), which helps replenish glycogen during strenuous exercise and is needed to keep energy levels high. Coconut water also contains sodium which helps in the absorption of carbohydrates.
The carbohydrate intake of athletes and women depends on the temperature of the air. The hotter it is, the less energy the body needs, which means it needs less sugar to maintain temperature. Therefore, in extreme heat, it is recommended to dilute coconut water with a small amount of water to avoid overdoing it.
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Rehydrating the body
This is a natural product used for fluid loss due to diarrhea, vomiting or excessive sweating.
Coconut water is also an excellent natural hangover remedy. Alcohol dehydrates the body. Coconut water replenishes your body with electrolytes and promotes hydration, making you feel better. In addition, the antioxidants in this healthy drink fight oxidative stress caused by excess alcohol.
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Lowers blood pressure
Coconut water is considered beneficial for controlling blood pressure. Thanks to the vitamin C, potassium and magnesium it contains! Potassium, in particular, helps lower blood pressure by balancing out the negative effects of sodium.
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Heart benefits
If your daily intake of potassium is below the recommended amount (3.5 g per day according to the WHO), you are at heart risk. The potassium found in coconut water helps regulate cardiovascular function. Moreover, coconut water significantly reduces blood pressure in people with hypertension.
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Coconut water improves digestion
Not surprisingly, a diet that is too fatty, too sweet and too rich in meat weakens our microbiota. Coconut water enhances our ability to digest food. Several studies have shown that coconut water contains digestive enzymes-phosphatase, catalase, peroxidase-in addition to those produced by our bodies to facilitate digestion.
It is used for digestive disorders such as indigestion, acid reflux and gastroenteritis.
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Fights cell aging
It’s not just fatty fish, whole grains and citrus fruits that protect our cellular tissues. Coconut water contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, selenium and cytokinins, which are needed to counteract excess free radicals, molecules that cause premature aging of body cells.
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Helps on a weight loss program (but don’t overdo it)
Coconut water is ideal for weight loss. It is low in calories and easy to digest, containing various bioactive enzymes that help digestion and stimulate fat metabolism. In addition, coconut water is rich in potassium, which helps restore sodium balance. Excess sodium tends to lead to water retention in the body, which contributes to weight gain. Therefore, coconut water helps to remove excess water and toxins from the body.
You can drink 250 ml of coconut water 3-4 times a week if you are on a weight loss program. But don’t consume too much of it to avoid increasing calories.
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Balances pH levels
Stress, toxins, and a diet rich in acidifying foods contribute to an acidic pH level. All this reduces energy and decreases the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals. In addition, acidic pH contributes to a number of health problems. For example, liver problems, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension and reduced immunity. Coconut water has an alkalizing effect that helps restore a healthy pH level in the body and helps with heartburn.
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Regulates blood sugar levels
Coconut water contains amino acids and dietary fiber that help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
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Natural Diuretic
Coconut water acts as a natural diuretic. It promotes the excretion of urine, cleansing the body of toxins. In addition to its diuretic properties, coconut water has antibacterial properties that are ideal for fighting bladder infections.
Contraindications :
- Coconut water is not suitable for people with nut allergies
- It may cause bloating and stomach upset in some people
- People with impaired kidney function should consult their doctor before including coconut water in their wellness regimen.