Coconut Water: 5 Health Benefits

Coconut water has gained a lot of popularity over the years. It’s a clear liquid and comes from a young, green coconut, harvested at roughly 5 to 7 months of age. Several people enjoy the sweet taste of coconut water, and choose to drink it to reap its nutritional benefits. Coconut water health benefits include lowering blood pressure as well as cholesterol. To learn about this tasty, popular coconut drink, read below.

Here are 5 coconut water health benefits:

1. Electrolyte Replacement: Coconut Water vs. Sports Drinks

Coconut water health benefits include electrolyte replacement. In fact, medical professionals have used it for IV hydration in some emergency situations. (1) Furthermore, on the list of coconut water benefits is the fact that it is lower in carbohydrates as compared to other sports drinks. Coconut water is only about 4.5 percent carbohydrates, while other sports drinks can contain 6 to 8 percent carbohydrate concentration. Athletes who are trying to watch their sugar intake should reap coconut water health benefits by drinking it instead of sports drinks. A 2002 study examined coconut water health benefits by comparing it to plain water and sports drinks. In the study, researchers set out to determine which beverage was best for post-exercise hydration. While they found no difference in hydration abilities, they did find a significant reduction in nausea and fullness with the coconut water, allowing participants to consume more of it. (2)

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Coconut water health benefits continue with the ability to lower blood pressure. For example, a 2005 study found that when participants were given coconut water for two weeks, their systolic blood pressure lowered by 71 percent. Furthermore, their diastolic blood pressure was 29 percent lower than those who drank plain water. (7) Furthermore, the high potassium content of coconut water has led researchers to believe it may be beneficial for lowering risk of cardiovascular disease. (3)

3. Lowers Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Coconut water health benefits extend to your heart, as well. Specifically, in a study involving rats, coconut water decreased triglyceride levels as well as LDL cholesterol found in the heart. Furthermore, coconut water benefits include recovery post-heart attack, as well. In a 2006 study, rats who drank coconut water recovered from heart attacks faster. The potassium, calcium and magnesium content in the water all play a role in heart health. (4, 5)

4. Cleanses / Detox

The human body has the innate ability to cleanse and detoxify itself all on its own. However, if you don’t give your body the nutrients it needs, this and other bodily systems can fail or not work properly. For example, dehydration leads to a build-up of toxins. This is because the liver and kidneys, which detox your body, are unable to function correctly without enough water. This is where coconut water health benefits come into play again. Coconut water contains an electrolyte profile that is similar to human blood. This makes it an ideal beverage to replace fluids and electrolytes, as well as to help your body remove toxins.

5. Reduces Stress and Muscle Tension

Coconut water health benefits also include the ability to reduce stress. The electrolytes, such as calcium and magnesium can help lower stress and relieve tension in the muscles. While calcium is good for teeth and bones, it also helps relax your muscles. (6) As for magnesium, it’s earned the nickname the “relaxation” mineral. Magnesium works with the nervous system to help you relax. Additionally, it helps with the formation of serotonin. Start soaking in coconut water health benefits by drinking it every day!