A co-worker brought it to my attention the other day that I haven’t talked about coconut water….I totally thought that I had because I LOVE IT!!!  So first of all, it is a low carb beverage, 99% fat free, and low in sugar, and it has, basically, the same electrolyte balance as our body, so it is an excellent choice for rehydration after a long night out of consuming adult beverages, or after a workout.  Also, it is more nutritious for you than drinking a glass of whole milk (for vitamins and electrolytes) but waaay less fat and no cholesterol.

Let me break it down here:  Coconut water contains more potassium (515mg) than most “sports” drinks (117mg), less sugars (5mg) as opposed to 10-25mg of sugar in standard sports drinks, and lower sodium (25-30mg) where sports drinks have around 41mg.  And, the sugars that are contained in coconut water are not added sugars so it is fructose from the coconut itself, a totally natural source.  Also, only 45 calories per serving!!

Because it is isotonic and mimics the bodies natural fluids electrolyte balance, people report feeling much more refreshed after drinking coconut water than they do drinking water or even energy drinks!!  Truly, sometimes when you feel tired or are dragging, the issue can be low blood sugar or dehydration (apart from the obvious stress, lack of sleep, multi-tasking, just really living!!) and that makes coconut water an ideal choice to make you feel better and give you a little hop in your step!

Also, people who have urinary problems, such as kidney stones and urinary frequency, have reported to have fewer stones and less urgency- significant enough to make coconut water a staple of their diets.  Although, it is not really known why, coconut water actually helps to break up kidney stones!!  Another little interesting use of coconut water, is that if it is taken with a teaspoon of olive oil, it can kill intestinal worms (parasites); so remember that on your next trip to a third world country!!  Apparently, during WWII and during various emergencies in 3rd world countries, people have been saved through using intravenous infusions of  coconut water, because it is so much like blood plasma, which I find fascinating!

Coconut water contains monolaurin which is an antibacterial/antiviral which can kill lipid (fat) coated viruses.  Now, whilst an interesting fact, I wouldn’t trust it completely as a cure all for all bacterial infections you may have!  But, I do think it can help with common colds, as a great way to re-hydrate with a fever, etc.  Also, it can help to prevent vomiting, so if you do have a virus that causes nausea and vomiting, it is a helpful beverage because it settles the stomach and helps to replace lost fluids.

Now, all this being said….the only coconut water I can drink is the Vitacoco that is coconut water with pineapple, they also have 100% pure coconut water, and they have it flavored with acai and pomegranate, peach and mango, and tangerine.  It can be hard to find that specific brand, and you all night like other brands, so give them a try, but please read labels! Vitacoco is 100% pure coconut water with other natural fruit juices added, and a brand that I trust.  They sell at Whole Foods, Shaw’s, The Fresh Market, and other places, just check the website out!  And, let me know if you find other brands that are super tasty and natural too!!

Yours in Good Health
B