In recent years, coconut water has become an increasingly popular drink, thanks to its pleasant and refreshing taste.
To make it so popular, also the fact that it is included among the healthy specialties, thanks to its presumed positive effects on health.
green, not yet fully ripe. This liquid forms naturally in the fruit and is made up of 94% water, compared to very little fat.
It is not to be confused with coconut milk, which is made by adding water to grated coconut pulp and is very high in fat.
One medium green coconut provides about 0.5-1 cups of coconut water.
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Research conducted on animals exposed to toxins has shown that coconut water has antioxidant abilities that modify free radicals so that they no longer cause damage.
In another study, some mice were treated with coconut water and their free radical activity decreased, as did blood pressure, triglycerides and insulin levels.
However, no such studies have been conducted in humans to date.
It can be effective against diabetes
Coconut water is a good source of magnesium, which can increase insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes.
Although there are no human findings yet, a study conducted on diabetic mice treated with coconut water showed that they maintained better blood sugar levels than the control group.
The same study also showed that mice treated with coconut water had lower levels of hemoglobin A1c, indicating good long-term glycemic control.
It can help prevent kidney stones
Drinking enough fluids is important for the prevention of kidney stones.
Although plain water is often considered the best choice, one study suggests that coconut water may be even better.
Kidney stones form when calcium, oxalate, and other compounds combine to form crystals in the urine. According to early animal research, coconut water appears to prevent the crystals from attaching to the kidneys and other parts of the urinary tract.
It can reduce blood pressure
Coconut water can be great for controlling blood pressure.
In a small study of people with high blood pressure, coconut water intake improved systolic blood pressure in 71% of the participants.
Additionally, coconut water contains 600mg of potassium in 240ml and potassium has been shown to lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure.
Finally, an animal study found that coconut water has anti-thrombotic activity, which means it can prevent blood clots from forming.
Excellent after prolonged exercise
Coconut water can also be the perfect drink to restore hydration and replenish electrolytes lost during exercise.
Electrolytes are minerals such as potassium, magnesium, sodium and calcium, which play several important roles in the body and which drop dramatically after doing "particularly strenuous" physical activity.
Two studies have found that coconut water restores hydration after exercise and replenishes these elements better than plain water and likewise high-electrolyte sports drinks.
, so besides being beneficial it is extremely pleasant.You can drink it directly from the green walnut, by inserting a straw in the soft part. If you choose this option, remember to keep the coconut in the refrigerator and consume it within two or three weeks of purchase.
A simpler alternative is to drink bottled coconut water, available at most grocery stores. In this case, check that the drink is 100% coconut water and that there are no added sugars or flavoring agents.
Additionally, this tropical juice can be used to add flavor to smoothies, puddings, yoghurts, dressings or substitute for plain water whenever you want a little extra sweetness.
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