5 Reasons to Consume Coconut Water
Benefits of coconut water
On a hot and humid day, nothing works better than a refreshing dose of coconut water. Coconut water is a low calorie drink, but it does have a GI of 54.
So, if you have type 2 diabetes, and poor gylcemic control, it is possible that your medical management team will suggest that you don’t consume coconut water regularly.
Coconut water is an opaque, almost clear juice or water with a slightly sweet flavor extracted from young coconuts. A healthy electrolyte drink that is naturally low in fat and calories, has no cholesterol and has a balance of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Also, please note that when we talk about coconut water here we are talking about fresh coconut water and not bottled coconut water, because it may consume preservatives or artificial sweeteners.
Here are 5 reasons to include coconut water
1. As a sports drink for beginners
Coconut water is not just refreshing, it is also loaded with nutrients. It’s no wonder it is promoted as an energy drink by fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious people.
Coconut water is a natural drink that contains everything a typical sports drink does and more. It has five times more potassium. If you get muscle cramps, potassium will help you get rid of them. It’s a nutritious drink that replenishes nutrients lost during a moderate workout.
2. To manage blood pressure
One reason coconut water may be linked to lower blood pressure is its high potassium content (215mg of potassium in 100 ml).
Potassium has been shown to reduce blood pressure in people with high or normal blood pressure by acting as a sodium antagonist. However, if you are taking any Blood pressure medicine be very cautious as it can lower your blood pressure further.
3. For diabetes
Coconut water is a good source f magnesium which has known to improve insulin sensitivity, despite its benefits in diabetes is doubtful because it can still cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
A person who exercises on a regular basis can drink up to one coconut water per day (without malai). This will not result in an increase in glucose levels.
People with severely uncontrolled blood sugar levels are advised to avoid it because it contains natural sugars in the form of fructose and glucose, and the content may vary depending on the maturity of the coconut water.
4. For hydration
Natural coconut water has a mildly sweet, nutty flavor. It’s also low in calories and carbohydrates. It is simple to consume and can help you stay hydrated during the summer or while traveling.
There are many packaged coconut water on the market today, but check the ingredients first; consuming it in its natural form is the best way to consume it.
5. Works as an antioxidant
Free radicals are unstable molecules that your cells produce during metabolism. In response to stress or injury, their production increases.
When there are too many free radicals in your body, you enter an oxidative stress state, which can damage your cells and increase your risk of disease. It contains an abundance of nutrients and antioxidants, making it an ideal drink for glowing skin.
How to consume coconut water?
You can have it fresh just as intended by nature
You can add a citrus twist to it by adding lemon juice
You can also consume it with chia or basil seeds, which will help cool down your body
When to consume coconut water?
Ideally, it can be consumed at any time. However, most people prefer consuming it in the morning post-workout. To help cool down and energise yourself for the rest of the day.
Can everyone consume coconut water?
If you have been diagnosed with any health conditions, it is always better to get insights from your medical team about whether something is suitable for you or not.
However, for people who have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, should limit their consumption of coconut water as it can lead to sudden spike in glucose levels. Also, people with low blood pressure should speak to their doctors about coconut water consumption.
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