Healthy Living

The coconut grows in the tropical areas of the world and has a reputation for being a food with many health benefits. The water found inside the coconut is extremely high in electrolytes such as potassium and calcium, and contains many other healthy nutrients as well. Coconut water is a delicious way to stay hydrated on a hot summer day or after a workout. Several companies have been jumping on the coconut water bandwagon recently because of it’s growing popularity in the United States and around the world.

A Unique Flavor

I have to admit that the first time I tried coconut water I wasn’t a fan. I purchased a bottle of the stuff from a local organic market and just couldn’t finish it. To me it tasted funny and almost like plastic. I had written it off for a few months until the summer rolled around when I found a street vendor selling fresh coconuts chopped open with a straw inside for drinking. That was the best three dollars I’ve ever spent! It tasted fresh and so different than the bottled coconut water that I’d tried previously. It really is the perfect drink to have on a hot afternoon.

Better For Athletes

Sports drinks like gatorade offer a way for athletes to replenish much needed electrolytes after physical activity, but unfortunately drinks such as these are often packed with high fructose corn syrup and other refined sugars as well. The sugar content of coconut water is far less, and comes naturally from the coconut itself. Once companies like Vita-coco and Zico started packaging coconut water, many people have ditched their old sports drinks and replaced them with this healthier alternative. The potassium content found in coconut water is extremely high, more than that of bananas. This essential electrolyte is a key nutrient that helps prevent muscle cramping while the body repairs itself after physical activity.

Skin Benefits

Coconut water has been shown to help detox your body. When our bodies begin to remove toxins from our systems naturally, they are expelled through the pours in our skin. Not only does coconut water help to speed this detoxification process up, but it also keeps the skin healthy and hydrated while this is going on. This insures that the skin doesn’t develop acne and other unsightly blemishes during this period.

Other Health Benefits

• Studies have shown that coconut water can help to lower a persons cholesterol, which can lead to better circulation and a healthier heart.
• Coconut water can have a positive effect on people suffering from hypertension (high blood pressure) by lowering it, leading to better blood flow and less strain on the heart.
• Preliminary studies in animals have shown that this beverage can help to increase estrogen levels in females, which decline naturally as a woman ages. This crucial hormone is responsible for maintaining a healthy libido and stable mental health.
• Coconut water is a natural source of powerful antioxidants, which help to rid the body of the free radicals and other toxins that lead to cancer.

Take the plunge and try some delicious coconut water today, your body will thank you for it!