5 Proven Health Benefits of Coconut Water!

Coconut water is a natural liquid extracted from the middle of young coconuts. Research has found this nutrient-rich liquid can provide several impressive health benefits, particularly when used regularly. You can drink coconut water on its own, add it to other drinks or use it to make smoothies. You can also use it to replace water, milk and other liquids in a wide range of recipes. Here are five proven health benefits of coconut water.

1. Promotes a Healthy Heart

Coconut water contains high amounts of potassium, which lowers blood pressure and can reduce the need for medication in hypertensive patients. One study suggested that regular intake of coconut water could even lower the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, reducing the need for statins in patients with high cholesterol levels. In addition, regular intake could help to prevent blood clots in some people.

2. Protects Against Diabetes

Research has found that coconut water can reduce blood glucose levels, partly due to its impressive magnesium content. Coconut water is a rich source of magnesium, an essential mineral that can increase sensitivity to insulin and help to stabilise blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

3. Fights Free Radical Damage

Coconut water is packed with antioxidants that help to combat cell damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are produced naturally by the body, but exposure to toxins, environmental pollutants, stress and even some foods can all cause extra free radicals in the body. Excessive amounts of free radicals can damage cells and lead to serious disease. Antioxidants work by neutralising free radicals and preventing further damage.

4. Replaces Electrolytes

Coconut water contains over 90% water and is packed with electrolytes, including sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium, making it ideal for replacing fluids lost through exercise, physical exertion and illness. Coconut water can rival sports drinks for rehydration and, unlike many sports drinks, it doesn't contain artificial sweeteners or harmful additives.

5. Prevents Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are the result of calcium and other compounds combining and forming crystals in the urine. These crystals then form into kidney stones. One study found that coconut water could reduce the number of crystals and stop them from sticking to the kidneys, preventing the formation of stones.

Coconut water is packed with essential nutrients and has been shown to provide several impressive health benefits. Coconut water can help to promote a healthy heart, protect against diabetes, fight free radical damage, replace electrolytes and prevent kidney stones. Drink regularly to reap the full benefits.