16 Reasons to Drink Coconut Water

Coconut water is a wonderful drink that is completely natural, free from preservatives and additives (for flavoring and coloring). It is richer in nutrients than many types of milk as it contains no cholesterol, is virtually fat-free, and has low sugar and carbohydrate content.

Is Drinking Coconut Water Good for You?

The scientific name for coconut is Cocos nucifera, belonging to the palm family. The coconut fruit contains up to 94% water and very little fat. Coconut water is a drink rich in valuable nutrients that are beneficial for human health, found within the heart of the coconut once the outer husk is removed.

It typically takes about 10 to 12 months for a coconut to fully mature. However, the water from young coconuts can be harvested after just 6 to 7 months of growth. Coconuts are commonly found in tropical countries, especially in coastal regions. They can be encountered in most countries within Asia, the Pacific, and beyond.

The nutritional composition in 100g of coconut water includes:

• Energy: 354 Kcal
• Lipid: 33g
• Sodium: 20mg
• Potassium: 356mg
• Carbohydrate: 15g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 3.3g
• Vitamin C: 3.3mg
• Calcium: 4mg
• Iron: 2.4mg

These nutritional components contribute to making coconut water nutritious and widely consumed.

Coconut water contains organic compounds that enhance health

1. Maintains Body Temperature Cool and at an Appropriate Level

Coconut water replenishes natural fluids in the body, especially after exercise, balancing pH levels and reducing cancer risk.

2. Cardiovascular Health

According to researchers, individuals with high blood pressure often have low potassium levels. Thus, regularly drinking coconut water can be quite effective in regulating blood pressure due to its high potassium and lauric acid content.

Similarly, recent studies have shown that coconut water can help increase HDL (good) cholesterol, making it an excellent natural beverage for maintaining heart health.

3. Weight Loss

Coconut water is a natural electrolyte that not only quenches thirst but also boosts the body’s metabolism. Therefore, it is highly beneficial for those struggling with weight issues and managing diabetes.

Coconut water aids weight loss

4. Boosts the Immune System

Coconut water is a sterile, low-calorie, and low-fat liquid that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Some key nutrients in coconut water include lauric acid, chloride, iron, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and phosphorus. In fact, the potassium content in coconut water is twice that of bananas.

This helps balance muscle, cardiovascular, neurological, and immune health, as well as absorb and balance internal fluids to help the body fight off various bacteria and viruses such as influenza, herpes, and HIV.

5. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Many studies have shown that fresh coconut water has antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These characteristics make coconut water a potential aid in treating serious health issues.

It is a nutrient-rich beverage that has been used to regulate blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels. It also helps boost energy levels and enhance metabolism in the human body.

Additionally, coconut water is quite effective in treating various ailments including influenza, stomach issues, dysentery, indigestion, constipation, intestinal worms, cholera, urinary abnormalities, kidney problems, dry itchy skin, and reducing wrinkles.

If you are feeling discomfort after consuming alcohol, nothing will help you feel better quickly like drinking coconut water.

6. Coconut Water Used in Blood Transfusions

Coconut water is very similar to plasma, making it easy to use in blood transfusions, which facilitates its use in emergencies. During World War II, many injured soldiers in the Pacific were saved due to the urgent need for blood transfusions, and doctors used coconut water as a plasma substitute.

Coconut water is similar to plasma

7. Supports Digestive Health

Proper consumption of coconut water provides the body with lauric acid, which is incredibly beneficial for the stomach. Lauric acid converts to monolaurin, which has antibacterial properties, promotes wound healing, and stabilizes the gut microbiome.

8. Dissolves Kidney Stones and Urinary Stones, Aiding in Their Expulsion

Individuals with kidney issues or those showing signs of kidney stones should drink coconut water alongside their prescribed medications. Regular consumption of coconut water will help dissolve kidney stones and facilitate their expulsion from the body.

9. Reduces Urinary Issues

If you regularly drink coconut water, it can help reduce urinary problems. Those suffering from frequent urination and other urinary disorders should consume more coconut water to alleviate their symptoms.

Coconut water stabilizes the stomach

10. Alleviates Nausea

Coconut water is highly regarded for its effectiveness in reducing vomiting. Individuals suffering from typhoid, malaria, fever, or other conditions that induce vomiting can drink coconut water to stabilize their stomachs.

11. Promotes Skin Health

Research has shown that cytokinins found in coconut water help regulate skin cell growth. Additionally, coconut water contains lauric acid, which can minimize skin cell aging, balance pH, and keep skin tissues strong, while also moisturizing the skin.

Therefore, simply applying coconut water to troubled skin each night before bed can help reduce acne, wrinkles, stretch marks, itchy skin, and eczema.

12. Effects of Coconut Water on Menstruation

There is a lot of misinformation suggesting that drinking coconut water during menstruation is not advisable. However, these claims are unfounded and unreliable. The benefits of coconut water for women during this time are substantial.

Coconut water helps regulate menstruation better, reduce menstrual cramps, prevent dehydration, and loss of energy…

Consuming a moderate amount of coconut water daily during menstruation can help regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate menstrual cramps, prevent dehydration and fatigue, and support the body’s quick recovery. It is advisable not to consume large quantities of coconut water, as it may lead to bloating and discomfort during this time of the month.

13. Reducing Dehydration

Dehydration can occur due to diarrhea or high-intensity physical activity. Replenishing electrolytes after dehydration is crucial. Regularly drinking coconut water can meet this need, as it is rich in beneficial minerals.

14. Regular Consumption of Coconut Water for Diabetes Management

Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that regular consumption of coconut water significantly reduces blood sugar levels. This can help stabilize health for individuals with diabetes.

15. Antioxidant Properties

Free radicals in the human body originate from unstable molecules within cells. An excess of free radicals leads to increased oxidative stress, raising the risk of cancer and other serious health issues. Drinking coconut water can help prevent oxidative stress in the body.

16. Supporting Treatment for Pharyngitis and Acute Laryngitis

Coconut water contains natural electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium, with a relatively balanced composition similar to that of bodily fluids. When experiencing a sore throat, the mucous membranes become swollen and dry, causing discomfort. Drinking coconut water, especially by holding a mouthful in the throat for about 5 minutes, will help absorb into the respiratory epithelium, balancing the fluid levels inside and outside the cells, thereby relieving pain.

Similarly, with laryngitis, the mucosa can dry out due to inhaling polluted air, such as increased SO₂ levels (acid rain). When air enters the lower respiratory tract, it interacts with moisture on the mucosal surface, producing sulfuric acid that burns the laryngeal mucosa and causes inflammation. Coconut water can neutralize and reduce acidity due to its mildly alkaline nature.

Coconut water has a lower sugar content than most sports drinks and contains carbohydrates, which can help improve muscle function, thus reducing fatigue and soreness during pharyngitis.

Many studies recommend that, alongside medications used for pharyngitis, patients can consume 2 coconuts (approximately 400 ml of water) daily to support treatment for acute pharyngitis and laryngitis.

Some Tips for Using Coconut Water

Coconut water loses its flavor when extracted from the fruit, so it’s best to drink it directly from the coconut. The sooner you consume it after harvesting, the more nutrients it retains.

Coconut water has many health benefits; however, it should not be overused (more than 3-4 coconuts daily and continuously for many days). According to folk wisdom, improper consumption can lead to reactions such as:

When outside in hot weather, returning home thirsty and drinking too much coconut water can result in symptoms like chills, bloating, fever, or high fever.

Before participating in sports competitions, excessive coconut water consumption can lead to a feeling of lethargy and reduced agility and quick reflexes required.

Individuals with a body constitution characterized by coldness, such as pale skin, soft muscles, cold extremities, slow digestion, low appetite, low thirst, a preference for warm drinks, and susceptibility to diarrhea, should avoid coconut water.

Proper Storage of Fresh Coconut Water

• How long can fresh coconut water be stored? Generally, coconut water can be stored for 7 days in the refrigerator after extraction. However, if kept for too long, it will lose essential nutrients.
• Coconuts preserved with sodium metabisulfite and wrapped with an additional protective layer can last up to 4 to 6 weeks.
• Another method of preserving coconuts is to keep them at temperatures between -18 to 35 degrees Celsius.

Drinking Coconut Water Correctly for Health Benefits

The water from coconuts provides numerous health benefits, which cannot be denied. However, improper usage and consumption by the wrong individuals can lead to certain issues.

1. Can Pregnant Women Drink Coconut Water?

Pregnant women who consume coconut water in moderation can enjoy many health benefits for both mother and baby. The minerals and vitamins in coconut water provide nutrition for the fetus, promoting its health.

When women are at risk of amniotic fluid deficiency, coconut water can help provide sufficient amniotic fluid.

Pregnant women will be adequately hydrated and nourished, significantly reducing the risk of potential health issues and enhancing the function of organs and muscles. Particularly, if there is a risk of amniotic fluid deficiency, coconut water can help provide the necessary amount of amniotic fluid for the expectant mother.

2. How Much Coconut Water is Sufficient?

It is advisable not to consume too much coconut water in a day; a maximum of only half the amount contained in one coconut should be consumed. Drinking too much can cause stomach discomfort, bloating, and may lead to obesity.

Choosing pure coconut water or water with added flavors is essential. Incorrect choices can adversely affect long-term health, especially for those with existing health conditions.

3. What Should Not Be Consumed with Coconut Water?

Coconut water contains a considerable amount of sugar, so it should not be consumed with very sweet fruits or other sugary beverages. This will lessen the burden on the kidneys and stomach.

Since coconut water is rich in essential minerals, it should not be combined with other mineral-rich foods. Additionally, coconut water has a cooling effect, so it should not be consumed at night or when experiencing digestive issues.

4. Is Drinking Coconut Water on an Empty Stomach Beneficial?

It is possible to drink coconut water on an empty stomach. A glass of fresh coconut water each day can not only boost the immune system but also protect the body against bacteria and other microorganisms. However, experts advise drinking coconut water in moderation, a little at a time, and not exceeding 3 coconuts per day to avoid health risks.