A few months back, I had this conversation with my husband about the different types of drinks, their benefits, and the disadvantages. And that’s when I researched about coconut water and its amazing benefits. It’s been 6 months that I have started drinking coconut water early in the morning. The best thing about living in Bangalore is that you can get coconut water almost everywhere. Therefore, the first thing I took at an empty stomach is the coconut water from coconut wallah (coconut shop), just selling outside my house.

In this article, I want to share the benefits of coconut and why this is the best beverage I recommend to everyone.

This trendy beverage is incredibly one of the most refreshing beverages. It is full of electrolytes & other essential nutrients and It is possible that you must have had coconut water at some point.

What is Coconut water?

The Latin name of coconut water is Cocos nucifera and in Sanskrit known as “Kalpavriksha” which means “the all giving tree.” Coconut water is clear water that is found in the tender green coconut. To get the maximum liquid, tender coconuts are harvested at 5 to 7 months. As the coconut gets mature, the water inside is replaced by coconut meat and the remaining water and meat are then converted into coconut milk. When the meat of the coconut is extracted, it becomes coconut oil. No matter how you consume, whether in a form of water, milk or oil, coconut still gives you numerous benefits. Check this out as to how you can use coconut oil in your beauty regime.

As compared with mature coconut water, Tender coconut water contains more nutrients. This energizing low-calorie natural beverage is packed with vitamin c, vitamin b, amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals like zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

Benefits of Coconut Water

1. Rehydrates The Body

Coconut water contains more electrolytes compared to other conventional beverages. Due to the presence of electrolytes, coconut water is used to rehydrate the body in case of dehydration. The effect is similar to sports drinks available in the market. However, as coconut water is a natural source of potassium, it does not contain any added sugars or artificial sweeteners, therefore, it can be used to rehydrate the body after exercise. In addition to that, when it comes to digestion, coconut water is easy on the stomach when compared with other conventional carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks.

2. Supports Heart Health

Thanks to the presence of electrolyte in coconut water, research has shown that it can reduce blood cholesterol and triglycerides level. Simultaneously, it also maintains a good cholesterol level. A study suggests that consuming tender coconut water can also reduce hypertension. This study shows that after drinking coconut water for 2 weeks, blood pressure went down by almost ⅓ in 70% of patients.

Furthermore, because of the presence of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet properties, coconut water helps in improving circulation thereby reducing plaque formation in the arteries. It reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Promotes Healthy Skin

Coconut water contains a high amount of antioxidant and is a source of lauric acid that slows down the process of aging thereby making your skin looks healthier and younger. In addition to that, it also keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antifungal properties present in the water helps in getting rid of acne. Tender coconut water nourishes your skin and makes it soft & healthy. Therefore, if you want your skin to glow, start drinking coconut water.

4. May Help in Preventing Kidney Stone

Drinking coconut water may help in reducing the risk of kidney stones. According to a study performed in a rat, it has been proven that because of the presence of high potassium, coconut water reduces the number of crystals in the urine and dissolves particular types of kidney stones.

5. Promote Weight Loss

Coconut water benefits include weight loss as well. It is low in calories and is the best option to drink as compared to other sugar-loaded weight loss drinks. As it contains enzymes, coconut water helps in improving your digestion and metabolism. Drinking coconut water daily wash off the excess water present in the body which is the major reason for weight gain.

6. May Improve Your Digestive Health

If you’re facing digestion problems, then you should start taking coconut water. The potassium present in coconut water may help with poor digestion. According to a study, coconut water is a natural diuretic. It works incredibly for treating diarrhea as it comprises of iron, magnesium, calcium, and manganese and has the same electrolytic balance as your blood. Check this here.

7. Eases Hangovers

Coconut water works amazingly when it comes to a hangover. You have had too much alcohol and now you’re having severe hangover headaches. If that so, grab the coconut water. Due to excess alcohol, your body is suffering from dehydration and drinking coconut water helps you in hydrating your body. The vital electrolyte present in the coconut water reduces the hangover making it an essential natural remedy for overcoming the hangovers.

8. Balance pH Levels of The Body

There are various ways through which several toxic substances enter your body such as through processed fast foods, or from stress. These toxins, when entered into your body, lowers the pH level making it more acidic due to which you may feel low in energy. Low pH levels may cause several issues such as joint pain, high blood pressure, immune deficiency, diabetes, etc. If you want your body to function properly, it’s extremely important to maintain the pH level. Have tender coconut water as it’s alkalizing effect helps restore the pH level of your body.

9. May Treat Headache

Coconut water is a good source of magnesium and people who suffer from migraines may have low levels of magnesium. Some studies also proved that magnesium helps in reducing the migraine attack. Many of the headaches even migraines are caused by dehydration. Coconut water is a good source in providing electrolytes to the body thereby boosting hydration.

Best Time To Drink Coconut Water

If you want to have most out of it, prefer drinking coconut water early in the morning. Start your day by having a refreshing tender coconut water. Drinking it early in the morning at an empty stomach gives you many health benefits. However, you may also drink it before meals or after meals, before or after your workout session, and before you go to sleep. With so many benefits, the best thing is coconut water is affordable and easily available.