Do you know the benefits of coconut water?

Coconut water is a refreshing drink that promotes instant relief on very hot days and matches perfectly with a moment of leisure and rest on the beach. Easy to find, tasty and healthy, it is a darling of many people. But do you really know its properties?

It is highly nutritious and has a good antioxidant action and, consequently, anti-aging. Perhaps we can even risk saying that, in our reality, coconut is the closest thing we have to a fountain of youth.

You've certainly heard that coconut water is good for you and, in this article, you will learn more about its main benefits and understand once and for all why it is definitely a good idea. Read on to learn more!

Understanding more about coconut water

The pulp of the coconut absorbs the liquid inside so that the fruit can continue its development process. That is why the ideal coconut water for consumption is the one that comes from the still green fruit: it is when the pulp is still thin and has more liquid inside the fruit.

Moreover, the liquid is still fresh at this stage. Check out more valuable information on the subject below.

Origin and history of coconut water

The origin of coconut is uncertain, but it is believed to have initially appeared in Asia. The fruit was brought to Brazil by the Portuguese in 1553, and can be consumed in different ways. Among them, certainly the ingestion of coconut water stands out.

Born in the coconut palm, this special and versatile fruit, when it is green, contains inside a good amount of a highly nutritious liquid. This liquid begins to appear when the seed of the coconut palm is still being formed, and is a food reserve for the embryo that will originate the plant.

The coconut develops layers that serve as a packaging for the seed. And the division of the cells that occurs in this process, besides generating the white pulp that we know, generates the coconut water. It has the function of supplying the fruit with vitamins and minerals, and the pulp gradually sucks up the liquid in the course of the phases through which the coconut passes.

Characteristics of Coconut Water

This natural beverage is usually in a balance between different flavor profiles. Besides being naturally acidic, it is both sweet and salty at the same time, so it may cause some surprise to those who are not a fan of this combination of flavors, and fill the eyes (and stomach) of those who enjoy the mixture.

This natural flavor can vary depending on the specifics of the coconut tree of origin and other factors, such as the time of year when the coconut is harvested and its state of maturation. Water from coconuts that grow on the coast, for example, have a more salty flavor. Therefore, Brazilian coconuts do not normally have such sweet water.

Coconut water properties

Rich in sugars and minerals, coconut water is a natural isotonic. That is, it is able to replace electrolytes and water lost in the perspiration of the skin. Therefore, it is perfect to make up for what is lost in the sweat during physical activity or on those very hot and sunny days.

In addition to electrolytes such as potassium, this liquid is rich in many other nutrients. It contains calcium and magnesium, which are good for bones and muscles, and antioxidant actives, which help fight free radicals and oxidative stress.

As if all its benefits were not enough, coconut water still has a low calorie content. Therefore, those who do not want to gain weight need not be afraid to consume it, especially in place of juices and other more caloric drinks.

Types of coconut water

Normative Instruction Nº9/2020, from MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply), brings five classifications of coconut water, and it is worth knowing them. They can vary in relation to the manufacturing method and the levels of sugar, sodium and other substances, besides the flavor. Check out the different options you can consume below.

Whole coconut water

The whole version is the best known. It is the liquid part removed from the coconut unprocessed - It is ready for consumption right after extraction, and involves no dilution, fermentation or addition of new substances. It comes straight from the coconut!

Concentrated coconut water

It is basically the whole coconut water after undergoing a process that results in its concentration. With this, concentrated coconut water contains at least 30% solid content.

Dehydrated coconut water

This product is obtained after subjecting the original coconut water to a specific dehydration process, which results in the loss of at least 95% of the moisture. Its purpose is to allow the product to be taken anywhere. To consume the dehydrated coconut water, you must add water and mix.

Reconstituted coconut water

It consists of a drink that has dehydrated or concentrated coconut water as its base. Reconstituted coconut water comes after adding drinking water (as is done with the dehydrated version), whole coconut water or both, and the addition of sugars is also common. With this, you get a nectar or drink that is sweeter and perhaps a little more concentrated than the natural version.

Standardized coconut water

Commonly sold, the standardized coconut water is based on whole coconut water, just like the others. To this original product, substances such as sugars and concentrated or dehydrated coconut water are added. It differs from the reconstituted version for not having added water, and it is usually sweeter than coconut water unprocessed .

Benefits of Coconut Water

You already know that coconut water is healthy. Now how about knowing more about its benefits? Keep reading to stay in the know!

Hydrates the body

Coconut water is a highly hydrating beverage. It is excellent for cases of dehydration, whatever the reason - low fluid intake, alcohol or illness. It can also be consumed by those who are not dehydrated to keep hydration up to date or give that extra level.

In addition, the electrolytes that the drink contains are able to assist in maintaining the body's water balance. This complements the hydrating action by facilitating healthy fluid retention, which optimizes how the body absorbs and uses the new dose of hydration.

Helps the kidney function

Many people already know that hydration via fluid intake is important for the proper functioning of the kidneys. So, drinking coconut water helps a lot in this. But the potassium it contains is also able to optimize kidney function, enhancing the benefits.

Coconut water can prevent the formation of kidney stones or even promote the release of those already formed. In addition, the drink is able to relieve kidney damage in people with diabetes.

Strengthens the immune system

Due to the presence of amino acids, vitamins and minerals, coconut water can greatly help in strengthening the immune system and the consequent prevention of colds, flu and other diseases.

In addition, some brands sell versions of the drink that are added vitamins C and D. This gives an extra boost to your immunity. But it's important to watch out for added sugars and other substances, always keeping in mind the bigger picture of your health.

Fights hypertension

Potassium, an electrolyte contained in coconut water, acts in vasodilation. With this, it is able to improve blood flow, which can be beneficial in combating high blood pressure - provided that the intake is balanced!

For the same reason, this drink also helps in preventing high blood pressure and reducing the risk of future heart disease. So taking it once in a while is a good way to take care of your health.

Lowers blood cholesterol

In one scientific study, it was observed that coconut water was responsible for a reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels that closely resembled the results of a specific drug for this purpose.

The dose of coconut water used in the study was very high and may not be recommended for regular consumption, but it has been proven effective in this regard. This is because coconut contains a substance called lauric acid.

This acid contributes to the reduction of cholesterol, because it is able to reduce the lipid cover (fat layer). With this, there is a reduction in cholesterol and the risk of clogging of the arteries.

Helps to lose weight

Coconut water is perfectly safe for those who want to lose weight, as it has very few calories and is therefore a good substitute for other drinks that may not be ideal.

It has diuretic properties: in other words, it helps eliminate excess fluid from the body. Therefore, it is an ally in the fight against swelling due to fluid retention and in diets aimed at weight loss.

In addition, it is common for people to confuse hydric need with hunger or desire to eat. Coconut water helps maintain good hydration, which makes this trap does not appear.

Acts in the treatment of intestinal infections

Coconut water helps a lot in the treatment of intestinal infection and diarrhea. Rich in mineral salts and fiber, it replenishes the hydration lost in these cases and nutrients, which end up being eliminated in large quantities. Thus, it contributes to the improvement of intestinal health and symptoms common to these conditions, such as weakness and dizziness.

Electrolyte replacement, besides being important due to the loss that intestinal infection, food poisoning and the like usually cause, makes your body able to retain the hydration received through coconut water itself, mineral water and other sources.

This drink also generally aids in detoxifying the intestines, which is beneficial even for those who are not experiencing intestinal infection or other similar problems.

Acts against nausea, heartburn and reflux

The magnesium and potassium in this drink help combat conditions such as heartburn, reflux, and poor digestion (which can result in nausea and other symptoms). It can also greatly help with motion sickness due to pregnancy, and is safe for pregnant women.

The action against nausea, heartburn and reflux happens because the liquid hydrates and promotes the cleaning of the esophagus. With this, the irritation generated by the acidity of the stomach contents is reduced. So, if you are with one of these problems, drink coconut water.

Cleanses the skin

The lack of hydration can result in skin problems, such as dryness, and drinking coconut water certainly helps to improve the skin. Not to mention the antioxidants naturally present in it, which fight free radicals and promote cell regeneration, consequently fighting skin aging.

In addition, some options sold on the market contain extra ingredients that can be beneficial and enhance the antioxidant effect. Among these components is vitamin C, which furthermore stimulates the synthesis of collagen, which leaves the skin firmer and younger-looking.

There are also indications that the direct application of coconut water on the skin can be a good treatment. Besides promoting a non-greasy hydration, studies point out that it would have an antimicrobial effect, which can help alleviate acne.

Slows aging

Coconut water has naturally antioxidant components, which means that they fight oxidative stress and free radicals. Consequently, these assets fight and delay the aging of the skin and the body as a whole.

In addition, the benefits of calcium and magnesium present in the drink strengthen and improve the functioning of bones and muscles, giving that extra dose of vitality.

Improves hangover

The malaise and especially the headache typical of a hangover usually happen due to dehydration. This is a very common effect of alcohol, which somehow robs the body of water. Even if you don't overdo it, it is common to have these symptoms in less or more intensity after a night out.

And coconut water can be a great ally the next day. Super hydrating, it helps replace lost fluids and also contains electrolytes that help maintain hydration. Thus, it eases the hangover symptoms and speeds up your body's recovery.

Combats cramps

Among the main factors that cause cramping are dehydration that comes with physical wear and tear and lack of nutrients like sodium and potassium. As you already know, coconut water has very hydrating properties, which combats dehydration from body wear and tear.

The presence of sodium, potassium and other nutrients combat the last factor, so that the power of this liquid to fight cramps becomes even greater. In addition, the presence of calcium, magnesium and the like, coconut water also helps strengthen the muscles.

Further information about coconut water

It is also important to know about the different forms of coconut water available and the care you should take regarding the intake. So check out some more tips below.

Ways to consume coconut water

In addition to drinking coconut water in the traditional way, you can prepare some recipes using it as an ingredient. Thus, you enjoy the benefits of this liquid adding an extra dose of flavor and nutrition.

You can prepare, for example, a fruit smoothie with coconut water or even an acai. You can also mix it into juice to make it tastier and healthier.

How often can coconut water be taken?

For those who do not have health complications, it is difficult for coconut water to do harm, even if it is ingested in large quantities or too often. It is a very healthy and safe drink. However, everything in excess can do harm, so you do not need to take it all the time.

The electrolytes that this drink contains in general are excellent for health, but if consumed in excessive amounts can generate an imbalance in the body.

The excess of potassium, for example, can generate arrhythmia in those who have heart problems. But, in general, people who do not have health problems do not need to worry.

Coconut water or mineral water: which one to choose?

It is important to remember that no drink replaces the conventional mineral water. It is the ideal liquid to maintain the balance of the body functions, and exchange it for other options is risky. Even though coconut water has few calories, it still contains sugars, carbohydrates and the like, so it is not so safe to drink it with the ideal frequency with which one should drink regular mineral water.

Coconut water should be used as a complement to mineral water, an additional source of hydration and nutrition, and never a substitute! You can drink it quietly, but without giving up the intake of water throughout the day.

Contraindications and possible side effects of coconut water

There are some health conditions that call for caution in consuming coconut water, but that doesn't mean sufferers can't drink it.

People with heart problems, hypertension, diabetes or kidney problems should be careful and limit themselves to a maximum of 3 glasses per day. This is due to the concentration of some substances in this drink, such as potassium, sodium and carbohydrates.

Coconut water has many benefits!

Whether it's whole, concentrated, dehydrated, reconstituted or standardized, coconut water is a super beneficial drink for health and can even have aesthetic benefits. Feel free to explore the different options, but remember: the healthiest way is natural! Not to mention that it's chic to drink coconut water straight from the coconut on the beach, right?

Besides the beach, you can use coconut water to refresh, hydrate and enjoy the flavor on a hot day or consume it after physical activity to replenish fluid and nutrients. It's also worth drinking it for no reason at all, simply to savor it - and, as a bonus, reap the benefits it offers.

A balanced intake has everything to do well for your health, while still allowing that pleasure of drinking a light, refreshing and pleasant beverage. Here's to coconut water!