Coconut water is one of the fashionable drinks, especially in summer, when the beaches are filled with people consuming this refreshing drink. Coconut water is a drink that, specifically, is found inside the green coconuts, since when they mature, the water becomes the flesh of the fruit.
Those who consume this drink argue that it is good for coronary health, cholesterol control, and regulating the level of blood sugar. In addition, they believe that coconut water is more moisturizing than H2O, and believe that, taking it after intense exercise, you can recover faster.
The truth is that coconut water is 95% water. But in addition, it also contains sugars, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and phytohormones.
Benefits of coconut water
Here are the benefits that coconut water can have for the human body:
– Avoid dehydration: coconut water is a natural drink that comes from a fruit. In addition, it contains minerals that help hydrate the body, improve physical performance, and provide energy.
– Provides energy for the brain and muscles: coconut water contains about 295 mg of potassium. Potassium is a very beneficial mineral for the contraction of the heart muscles and can reduce the risk of a cardiovascular stroke, according to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO).
– Prevents aging: A study carried out by Palack University in the Czech Republic says that cytokines have an anti-aging effect on human cells. This drink contains specifically this group of plant hormones, which is why many people would include coconut water in their premature anti-aging routines.
– Improves digestion: as experts explain in a study from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (Brazil), the digestive properties of coconut water could be quite beneficial. Although the same research concludes that it is not yet safe to use it as a digestive tonic for stomach-related ailments, as scientists have not yet investigated enough, and little is known about it. Therefore, they recommend taking it moderately, as excess coconut water can have a laxative effect.
This same study, carried out in Brazil, tried to analyze the myths with which, in recent years, many people have classified coconut water as a “miraculous food.” However, the results of the research did not present clear but rather contradictory data, so experts recommend consuming it in moderation.
– Strengthens the immune system: coconut water has a high lauric acid content and, according to a study conducted by Texas A&M University (United States), lauric acid could have antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.
– Urinary tract health: Another study by the Cross River University of Technology in Nigeria suggests that coconut water may have positive effects on the kidneys.
Myths of coconut water
Those who consume this drink also suggest that it may have other positive effects, such as reducing the risk of a heart attack. However, scientists’ research must be well known before we believe the opinions of others, since a study carried out by the New Zealand Institute of Chemistry, these data would not be real, and coconut water would not prevent heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.
However, they admit that some of the benefits can be lost if coconut water is not natural, because it will have added sugars and other additives that multiply calories and make it similar to industrial soft drinks.
Marjorie Nolan Cohn, who specializes in eating disorders and is a member of the U.S. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Cleveland, also dismantles theories about the benefits of coconut water in an interview in the organization’s online magazine Eat Right, where he says there are some myths that, for the time being, have no consistent scientific support.
Thus, various studies show that coconut water has several health benefits, but other experts disagree with the theory. Like everything else, coconut water is not a miracle food, so it doesn’t cure diseases.
It’s always best to consult a doctor before starting to consume coconut water, as a specialist will be most familiar with your body and how this beverage can affect it. For example, it should be noted that coconut water has a high sugar content, so it is not recommended for people with diabetes.
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