We’re used to reading articles singing the praises of coconut oil and coconut milk, but not many know about the health benefits of coconut water. Cholesterol free, incredibly low in calories, naturally fat and comprising more potassium than three large bananas, coconut water is very hydrating and refreshing. These are just some of the coconut water health benefits that have recently transformed it in a true trend in America.

Also known as the sports drink of Mother Nature, this beverage boasts to be able to help out with various conditions, ranging from kidney stones to splitting headaches owed to hangovers.

With a nutty, sweet taste, coconut water comprises electrolytes and has less sodium and calories than most sports drinks out there. One ounce has 5.4 calories with 1.3 gr sugar, 61 mg potassium and 5.45 mg sodium. Impressive? Wait till you hear about the other good news. Some athletes go as far as to swear by it. It’s not an uncommon sight to see runners hydrate on marathon breaks with coconut water.

Health benefits of coconut water

Since it has such a small content of fat, it’s safe to drink as much coconut water as you want. On the contrary, consuming a lot of coconut water will only help your body reap more benefits. Let’s take a look at the exact coconut water health benefits.

1. Helps with digestion

Not only highly hydrating, coconut water is also an excellent source of fiber. This qualifies it as an excellent ally for facilitating digestion. Indigestion, constipation, and even gastritis could witness an improvement when coconut water is incorporated in daily fluids consumption .

2. Facilitates weight loss

Fluids in general play an essential role in helping weight loos efforts. But coconut water, in particular, will aid you shed some extra pounds due to the low-fat content. In addition to this, it also has the ability to curb your appetite and make you feel full owing it to its rich nature.

3. Flawless skin

A hydrated body will not only look more nourished and radiant, it will also eliminate all blemishes or acne. In addition to consuming coconut water on a daily basis, you can also use it topically. This remedy has the ability to calm down irritation, and it acts as a toner. The moisture coconut water puts in your body helps clear up a greasy face or greasy hair. It has been shown that cosmetics that comprise coconut extract (such as conditioners, facial creams and lotions) are highly more efficient than other products.

4. Cures hangovers

Hangovers don’t come unaccompanied, they are usually paired with stomach aches and splitting headaches. Coconut water is a simple, yet efficient way to keep hangovers in check. It will calm down any stomach upsets, replacing the essential electrolytes that are removed from the body following the dehydration from the considerable intake of alcohol.

5. Hydrates intensively

If you can’t be bothered to sip eight glasses of water throughout the day, and you’re not that keen on boiling water and waiting for tea to steep, you might want to try coconut water. This beverage has earned the title of being more efficient than most energy and sports drinks out there. A glass of water contains 5 mg natural sugar and 294 mg potassium. This makes coconut water a great replacement for lost minerals following an intense workout or a prolonged period of physical activity.

6. Lowers blood pressure

Most of the times, an imbalance at the level of electrolytes can lead to high blood pressure. This is where coconut water comes in play, acting as an excellent supply of electrolytes. Coconut water is best recommended to be consumed at the beginning of the day.

7. Packed with nutrients

Coconut water comprises five electrolytes that are essential for the human body. Sodium, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and magnesium make coconut water a one of a kind beverage that has benefits for people of all ages, struggling with various medical conditions.

8. Simply water

Resembling the hydrating cucumbers, coconut water has the same percentage of water: 95%. If plain water doesn’t sound too appealing, you can switch to a more expensive hydrating option and drink up on coconut water. It will keep you fully hydrated and help out your body with various nutrients.

9. Antioxidants

Loaded with antioxidants, coconut water could play a major role in protecting the body against free radicals. These are produced by the metabolism, therefore neutralizing the damage can only be done by consuming plenty of antioxidants. Coconut water is an excellent source of antioxidants and other key nutrients that can help prevent certain diseases and even cancers.

10. Cytokines

Not everyone has heard about cytokins, but it has been confirmed that they slow down the cancerous cells’ development and delay the aging process. Coconut water contains these beneficial compounds, fighting off premature aging and keeping our skin taut from within.

11. Heart tonic

The cardioprotective benefits of coconut water are owed to the fat and cholesterol free fluid. This enables the decrease of the bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and increases the level of the good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein). Besides the clear benefits of reducing cholesterol, this also helps reduce the risk of developing heart diseases. Additionally, coconut water boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have the ability to improve circulation, reducing the risk of getting a stroke or a heart attack.

Coconut water might seem to be the sweet nectar of the gods, however, there are some things you should take into consideration before buying it in bulk. If you have a nut allergy, your body might not tolerate coconut water. Likewise, those who frequently experience stomach upsets may notice bloating after consuming the beverage. It’s also worth taking into account that, since coconut water can interfere with your blood pressure, it’s recommended to stop drinking it two weeks prior to a medical intervention or a surgery, as well as two weeks following the procedure. Despite these, coconut water health benefits are amazing, especially the high concentration of potassium, antioxidants and minerals, which make it a great beverage for those who tolerate it and are keen on the nutty, sweet taste.