Is Coconut Water Really Good for Us?
May 21st, 2012
Have you tried coconut water? Coconut water became very popular last year because of claims that it has many health benefits. However is it really as healthy as people say it is?
Coconut water is the clear liquid inside young green coconuts. It is different from coconut milk which is a puree from coconut meat.
It became popular as a healthy drink minus the fat and cholesterol. Fitness enthusiasts think of it as a natural sports drink loaded with electrolytes sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphate. It also has a reputation to help with the following:
- improved circulation
- muscle performance
- heart health
- kidney problems
- slow aging
- fighting viruses
- boost immunity
- hydration
- reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke
- shaking off a hang over
While there are a lot of people supporting the health benefits of coconut water, there are some experts who believe that it is not as healthy as we think it is.
Some coconut water packages say they contain calcium and magnesium but it’s actually at a percentage that’s a lot less than they declare.
While it is true that coconut water is filled with electrolytes that are needed for hydration, experts say we don’t really need it unless you’re an athlete, or someone undergoing intense training. However nutritionists believe the sodium content that coconuts have is also not enough to replace what athletes lose when they sweat.
So is coconut water really good for us? Sad to say, the popular health benefits like keeping your blood pressure low, does not have enough scientific evidence to prove it. And you can’t trust the labels you see on coconut water products. 2 out of 3 products tested last year contained less nutrients than what they claimed they did.
Coconut water may not be as healthy as its popularity, but it’s still a much healthier alternative to other sugared beverages.
If you’re looking for the best health drink that’s calorie-free and fat-free, I’d say nothing beats water.
For more health living articles, visit the Vista Health Solutions health insurance blog.