We don’t know about a doctor, but a glass or two of fresh coconut water will definitely keep dehydration away. For many of us in our country, coconut water is the go-to drink on hot, mucky afternoons. It’s refreshing and naturally cooling. This humble drink is way better than your favourite Frappuccino or the rest of the ‘iced’ drinks, as it has a host of benefits like choc-full of antioxidants minus the calories!
THE ELIXIR OF GOOD HEALTH
Celebrities like Madonna and Padma Lakshmi are believed to have swapped out Gatorade for the all-natural electrolyte-infused coconut water! Actor Priyanka Chopra is a self-confessed fan of the drink. So are the Kardashians. American professional tennis player John Isner played and won the longest (11 hours and 5 minutes over the course of three days) professional tennis match in history at the 2010 Wimbledon Championships. He said that coconut water kept him on his feet during that marathon of a game! Isner also routinely mixes a cocktail of coconut water and sea salt for on-court hydration and he mixes it with protein powder for post-match recovery!
Here are a few reasons why it will be a great addition to any kind of diet….
• Low Calories: Coconut water is free of fat and cholesterol. So, it trumps all your favourite sugary and aerated drinks, juices and even energy drinks! Plus, it doesn’t cost even half as much as your favourite Starbucks beverage!
• Packed with Potassium: It has more potassium than four bananas! Woah! It helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions and nerve signals. Potassium also lowers your blood pressure and is said to boost libido! Need we say more?
• It Aids Muscle Recovery: Coconut water is rich in five essential electrolytes—potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and calcium—making it a great choice as a pre/post-workout fuel for the body. Coconut water not only provides hydration, but also muscle recovery as well. All this without the added calories of sugar or sweeteners.
• It Supports Digestion: A high fibre and magnesium content means help for your digestive organs. Magnesium helps in neutralising stomach acid and the fibre causes roughage/easy bowel movement. Grandma did know best!
Replace your afternoon cup of coffee with a glass of coconut water to feel energised through the evening. Or drink it as a post-workout booster. To sign off, coconut water is hands down better than sports drinks that are notoriously high on sugar and caffeine. Having said that, like with everything else in life, moderation is key.
[Image Credit: Shutterstock]
Eva Pavithran
Vertical Head - Lifestyle