Introduction
Coconut water is a popular thirst-quenching food commonly available in most countries. It contains various nutrients, for instance, vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and phytohormones. Recent scientific findings about the medicinal properties of coconut water reveal its real potential for improving human health.
Coconut water
Coconut water is the transparent liquid inside the young coconuts and is well known for its organic process and medicinal properties. It contains 94% water and very little fat.
It is composed of water (94%), sugars (aldohexose, fructose, and disaccharide) (5%), proteins (0.02%), and lipids (0.01%) 4 . Minerals, calcium, metal, and manganese are plentiful. However, the metallic element is scantly present.
It may help the burning sensation
Coconut water has long been used to treat burning sensation during urination, burning pain in the eyes, gastritis, dysuria, indigestion, and hiccups.
It may help with kidney stones
Kidney stone prevention needs sufficient hydration, and drinking enough fluids is essential. One study even suggests that coconut water may be better than plain water for hydration.
Kidney stones occur when calcium, oxalate, and other compounds merge to form gems, creating a stone. Some of these gatherings can be avoided when coconut water intake is higher.
May help diabetes
Coconut water may lower glucose levels and tweak other well-being indicators in diabetic patients. It also had lower haemoglobin A1C levels, exhibiting remarkable long-term glucose control, improved glucose levels, and oxidative pressure creators.
Another benefit of coconut water is its magnesium, which may increase insulin sensitivity and lessen blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.
Anti-bacterial properties
Coconut water contains organic and inorganic ingredients (almost all minerals found in food). Coconut water was screened to identify defence peptides with bactericidal properties, as it is regarded as a popular medicine in various human advancements.
Prevents oxidative stress
Coconut water is rich in L-arginine and vitamin C. Free radicals are unstable molecules produced in the cells during metabolism. Their production is in response to stress or injury.
Free radical generation can be reduced due to L-arginine and vitamin C. Coconut water acts as a powerful antioxidant to peroxidative tissue damage.
Antioxidant properties
Coconut water can increase levels of antioxidant enzymes. One study reported that Coconut water vinegar has helped to reduce acetaminophen-induced liver damage by restoring antioxidant activity and suppressing inflammation.
It may help blood pressure
Studies suggest that the consumption of coconut water has decreased blood pressure in primary hypertensive patients.
May help diarrhoea
Coconut water has been utilized in the treatment of child and adult diarrhoea. It is also used for gastroenteritis, urinary stone dissolution, short-term intravenous hydration, and protection against gastrointestinal tract infections.
May improve heart health
Coconut water may help control cholesterol levels in the blood and manage good heart health because it is high in potassium.
Moreover, coconut water also helps increase good cholesterol levels, decreasing the risk of heart disease.
Helps in good digestion
Coconut water is a good manganese source that helps regulate your bowel movements. It may also prevent gaseous distension of the abdomen, constipation and acidity.
It may help to detox the body
Coconut water helps detoxify your body by providing hydration and antioxidants.
It may help in weight loss
Pure coconut water can be a healthy replacement for more sugary drinks. Choosing coconut water as an alternative may support weight loss and help manage a moderate weight.
Disadvantages of coconut water
Coconut water has high sodium levels; drinking too much can take up much of your daily sodium allowance.
Interesting ways to drink coconut water
Drink it plain
The simplest and best way to enjoy coconut water is by sipping it directly from the coconut itself. This ensures you experience coconut water in its original form, bursting with electrolytes and a subtle, sweet taste.
Combine it with fresh juices
Add coconut water with fruit juice like orange, pineapple, or watermelon to blend flavour and additional hydration.
Not only does this blend give a delightful tropical taste, but it also boosts the total nutrient content of your favourite juices.
Blend it into smoothies
Increase the nutritional profile of smoothies by using coconut water as a base. Substitute regular water or dairy-based liquids with coconut water to include a tropical twist to your beverage.
Conclusion
Coconut water is a natural gift that offers the best cure for thirst and better health. Adding coconut water to your daily diet can have many health benefits and increase your overall well-being.
FAQs
What are the side effects of coconut water?
It may result in bloating and minor stomach distress for certain people.
People with kidney problems should visit a doctor before bringing coconut water into their diet.
