Crack open a coconut or bottle of coconut water to hydrate and enjoy its myriad of health benefits.
Thankfully, we can now find this tropical drink on store shelves all around the world.
Heres what happens when you make this tropical beverage a regular part of your eating routine.
Photo:Anna Bryleva/Getty Images
May Improve Digestive Health
Sipping coconut water may alsoenhance your gut health.
This benefit primarily stems from coconut waters hydrating properties.
Might Reduce Cell Damage
Each day, your cells face off against harmful molecules called free radicals.
These molecules emerge from normal metabolic processes within your body and exposure to external toxins and pollutants.
Therefore, more human studies are needed to validate these findings and determine their effectiveness in people.
Might Aid in Blood Sugar Management
Drinking coconut water regularly may also support blood sugar regulation.
Additionally, some coconut water brands contain added sugar, which could result in blood sugar spikes.
Still, coconut water is lower in sugar than many sugar-sweetened beverages like soda, says Van Ark.
Therefore, she suggests that swapping these drinks for coconut water may reduce blood sugar levels for some individuals.
These stones are formed from crystallized minerals and salts that accumulate in the kidneys.
It also contains a trace amount of calcium.
However, there are a few precautions to be aware of.
Coconut water is naturally high in potassium, which can pose challenges for those with compromised kidney function.
This is because coconut water can potentially affect blood pressure and blood sugar control during this critical period.
Look for options that are free of added sugars and preservatives.
Ideally, the ingredients list should contain only one item: pure coconut water.
If you come across a brand with a unique pink hue, dont fret!
This is a good sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes!
Coconut water, known for its hydrating properties, may support gut health.
Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects may benefit the gut microbiome.
Additionally, it can help with an upset stomach.
Additionally, it may interact with high blood pressure and high blood sugar medications.
Therefore, you should always consult your health care provider before making it a staple in your diet.
2022;27(10):3250. doi:10.3390/molecules27103250
Shrimanker I, Bhattarai S.Electrolytes.
4: e018 doi:10.48130/bpr-0024-0009
American Heart Association.How potassium can help control high blood pressure.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Beverages, Coconut water, ready-to-drink, unsweetened.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Professionals.Potassium.
7(2), 317325. doi:10.20473/amnt.v7i2.2023.317-325
National Kidney Foundation.Kidney Stones.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Professionals.Magnesium.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Professionals.Calcium.
