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Coconut water benefits: 11 you're probably not aware of
It's not just super duper hydrating
Coconut water, the clear liquid found at the centre of young, green coconuts, has been a fixture in health-conscious fridges for years now. And its popularity doesn't look to be slowing down. Nicknamed as ‘nature’s own sports drink’, the worldwide market value of coconut water was projected to be near $4.25 billion back in 2020, according to Statista. Yet, it's poised to grow
to $25.18 Billion by 2031. Yuh. It has staying power. A staple for many, coconut water, like protein powder and pre-workout supplements, can help to support your health and nutrition journey. Let's get into how, why and when.
What is coconut water?
First things first, what actually is it? It's a liquid found inside coconuts, which forms naturally as they grow and is replaced over time by the coconut 'meat'. For those as yet unacquainted with the drink, coconut water has a sweet, refreshing taste. Unlike other coconut-derived products (like oil and milk, which is the thicker stuff — avec grated coconut — goes in your curries), coconut water is low in fat and has a light consistency — not unlike water. Unless you’re lucky enough to slurp it straight from the flesh, coconut water generally comes in cartons or cans.
Is coconut water good for you?
You bet. The list of coconut water benefits is a long'un. Nicknamed Mother Nature’s sports drink because of its superior nutrient content — which makes it ideal for replenishing stores post-workout, coconut water contains heaps of antioxidants and easily digestible carbs (yet, still has less sugar than most actual sports drinks), plus electrolytes, including potassium and sodium.
That said, regular water is, obviously, the gold standard where hydration is concerned, so no need to overhaul your post-gym workout refuel or rush to fill your water bottle up with it if you're a fan of OG H20.
RELATED: How many litres of water should you drink a day?
Is it good to drink coconut water every day?
Though coconut water isn't short in benefits, 'as with anything, singling out a single food or drink and hailing it to be secret to health is not an accurate way of thinking about nutrition,' says Harley Street Nutritionist and author, Rhiannon Lambert. 'Our bodies require a varied and balanced diet.'
Generally speaking, coconut water is a safe (and delicious!) drink for most people. Though, those with kidney disease are advised to limit their consumption of foods and beverages that are high in potassium – which coconut water is.
When should I drink coconut water?
We're not going to tell you when you should (or shouldn't) drink certain things, especially not when our tastes and lifestyles are all so different. What we can say is that coconut water has certain properties that make it a great option for post-workout supping or when you're feeling "tired and emotional" (read: battling a hangover from hell).
It's widely available at most shops and won't break the bank (although it can be pretty pricey if you're buying the big one litre options).
What is the best coconut water brand?
Okay. So it's not a panacea, sure. And do watch out – pasteurised and processed versions contain fewer nutrients than fresh-from-the-nut stuff, so that's something to scan the back of a carton for before parting with your cash. Personally, we’re partial to Vita Coco Pure Coconut Water – it’s not from concentrate and has no added sugar. Score x2.
So, what are some of the potential plus points of cult-hit drink? Scroll on to find out.
10 coconut water benefits you're probably not aware of
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