Coconut water is made from green coconut, each of them contain about 1-4 cups of coconut water. This beverage provides delicious refreshment with very little calories and lots of nutrients. Some of the nutrients in coconut water are antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C and minerals such as manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc and calcium.
Drinking this natural beverage has anti-cancer, anti-aging and anti-thrombotic properties and it also strengthens the immune system. You should always choose fresh and pure coconut water over bottled. You can drink it by itself or add it in smoothies. Here are some of the most important health benefits of coconut water:
Relieves and treats headaches
Headaches and migraines are usually caused by dehydration which can be prevented by drinking coconut water because it contains electrolytes. Magnesium deficiency is also another cause of headaches and you can include more of this mineral by drinking coconut water.
Normalizes blood sugar levels
The amino acids and dietary fiber from coconut water regulate blood sugar levels and also improve insulin sensitivity which is very useful for diabetics. It can also decrease the risk of atherosclerosis since it improves circulation and also treats numerous symptoms such as numbness.
Coconut water has been proven to reduce blood glucose levels and also prevent oxidative stress which was published in a research made by the Food and Function journal in 2012.
Reduce high blood pressure
Blood pressure can be easily normalized by drinking coconut water due to the magnesium, vitamin C and potassium content. Potassium also balances the adverse effects of sodium which is one of the causes for hypertension. Consuming a cup of fresh coconut water twice a day will help you reduce your high blood pressure. Avoid bottled water because it usually contains more sodium.
It hydrates the body
The electrolytes in coconut water are excellent for preventing fluid loss caused by diarrhea, vomiting and excessive sweating especially during the hot summer days. The carbohydrates provide an energy boost so it is recommended to drink coconut water after exercise. Drinking this beverage is also beneficial for the digestive tract since it relieves conditions such as indigestion, gastroenteritis and acid reflux.
Natural diuretic
Drinking coconut water prevents urinary tract infections because it promotes urine flow and production. It can also help dissolve kidney stones because of the potassium that alkalizes the urine.
For problems with the urinary tract it is recommended to drink coconut water once or twice a day with some sea salt added to it. Note: If you have any kidney disorder or high potassium levels, avoid coconut water.
Heart health
Coconut water significantly reduces the risk of heart disease due to the ability to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels which is very beneficial for the heart. The medical food Journal conducted a study that proved the positive effects of coconut on the lipid metabolism and the ability to prevent increase of total cholesterol levels.
This natural remedy also improves blood flow and protects against plaque formation in the arteries, and also reduces the risk of strokes and heart attack, due to the anti-platelet properties it has.
Promotes weight loss
The low calorie content in coconut water and the bioactive enzymes it contains make it excellent for weight loss since it promotes digestion and fats metabolism.
The potassium reduces the excess sodium amounts which cause water retention thus it flushes the excess water as well as the toxins from the body.
If you want to lose weight, consume an 8-ounce cup of this beverage 3-4 times a week, however, drinking too much could have adverse effects because it provides more calories than you need.
Hangover cure
We already mentioned the importance of being well hydrated. Alcohol consumption causes dehydration which results in nausea. To relieve the effects of hangover, drinking coconut water will be of great help because it contains electrolytes which rehydrate the body.
Excess alcohol consumption also causes oxidative stress which can be relieved with the oxidative properties of coconut water. If you are hung over, make a mixture of 2 glasses unsweetened coconut water, ripe mangoes, 2 fresh mints, 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice and half a glass of ice. Blend the ingredients and drink the beverage for a quick hangover relief.
Slows down the aging process
Degenerative diseases and other age-related conditions can be prevented by drinking coconut water because it contains cytokines which have powerful anti-aging effects on the cells and tissues.
Your skin will also be hydrated and nourished and appear smoother and healthier.
To use this water for skin care do the following:
Crate a paste by mixing 1 cup of coconut water and 2 teaspoons of sandalwood powder. Apply the paste on the skin, leave it until it is completely dry then rinse with lukewarm water. Using this mask will rejuvenate your skin and make it healthier.
Balanced pH levels
The body’s pH levels should be alkaline, however, leading modern lifestyle, being stressed, eating processed foods and foods rich in sugar all cause your body to become acidic. This causes you to have less energy, to be fatigued and your body will be unable to absorb the nutrients it needs. Drinking coconut water restores the pH balance of your body by creating an alkaline environment.
IMPORTANT:
-If you suffer from nut allergies do not consume coconut water
-Drinking coconut water might cause your stomach to bloat or be mildly upset
-If you suffer from kidney dysfunction, always consult your doctor before starting to consume coconut water
-This beverage affects the blood pressure, so avoid it 2 weeks prior or after a surgery.
source and courtesy: dailyhealthgen.com