The amazing benefits of coconut water have been long used in the tropical regions.
It is made from the young green coconuts, and each nut involves 200-1000 milliliters (around 1-4 cups) of coconut water.
This organic beverage is full of antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, vitamin C and B-complex, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, manganese and magnesium.
The micronutrients from coconut water can improve immunity, and the cytokines have powerful anti-aging, anti-thrombotic and anti-cancer properties.
For best effects, choose fresh and pure coconut water instead of the bottled options. You can also add it to your smoothies and consume it daily. These are the most important health benefits of this healthy drink:
Treats Headaches
Coconut provides plenty of electrolytes and hydrates your body. Magnesium deficiency normally causes migraines, and hence coconut water is very useful, thanks to its high magnesium content.
Regulates Blood Sugar
The high level of amino acids and dietary fiber in the coconut water regulates the blood sugar and enhances the insulin sensitivity. It also improves circulation and treats various symptoms, like numbness, and also decreases the risk of atherosclerosis.
Supports heart health
Since it is cholesterol and fat free, coconut water supports heart health, and helps to minimize the LDL (bad) cholesterol, while raising the HDL cholesterol levels.
A 2012 study, published in the Medicinal Food Journal, revealed that both mature and tender coconut water have positive impacts on the lipid metabolism, and inhibit the rise of total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins (VLDL).
With its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-platelet properties, coconut water improves blood circulation, thereby safeguarding against plaque formation in the arteries, and hence minimizes the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Promotes Weight Loss
Coconut water is excellent for weight loss, as it is low in calories, and is great for digestion. It also involves many bioactive enzymes, which help digestion and boost the metabolism of fats. It is also abundant in potassium which aids the sodium balance, and the excessive amounts of sodium lead to water retention.To lose excess pounds, you should consume an 8-ounce cup of coconut water 3-4 times per week. Do not drink it in excessive amounts, as it may provide opposite effects, and provide more calories.
Rehydrates the body
This beverage is great for quenching thirst, in the summer especially. It is abundant with electrolytes, so it hydrates your body and prevents fluid loss in cases of diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating.
In addition, it provides a lot of energy, as it is abundant with carbohydrates. Its consumption it is recommended after exercise, due to these properties. It is easy on the stomach, so it treats various digestive issues, like acid reflux, indigestion, and gastroenteritis.
Acts as natural diuretic
Coconut water as diuretic, helps the production and flow of urine, and therefore detoxifies the system, and prevents urinary tract infections. Potassium alkalizes the urine and dissolves kidney stones, if present.
You can add sea salt to it and drink it a once or twice a day, for best results. Its powerful antibacterial properties prevent and treat bladder infections. However, you should avoid coconut water if you have high potassium levels, or if you have problems with some kidney disorders.
Decelerates the aging process
Cytokines in this water have strong anti-aging effects on cells and tissues, so it prevents age-related diseases, as well as degenerative diseases.
Also, coconut water hydrates and nourishes your skin, and helps it be gentle and even. You need to mix a cup of the drink and 2 teaspoons of sandalwood powder to create a paste.
Next, apply this paste on your skin, leave it to dry, and wash it off with water. This will refresh your skin and promote its health.
Balances pH levels
Acidic pH levels lead to reduced energy, fatigue, and inability for the body to absorb the needed minerals and vitamins. The coconut water alkalizes the body and restores the pH balance.
Despite all of these benefits of coconut water it should be noted that this drink is not recommended if you have nut allergies. It can also cause stomach bloating and mild stomach upset. In the case of kidneys dysfunction, patients should consult their doctor before the consumption of coconut water. Because of its effect on the blood pressure, drinking coconut water is not recommended at least 2 weeks before or after surgery.
