Health Benefits of Coconut Water‏

To start with, it is important that you don’t mix the terms “coconut water” and “coconut milk”. The methods of production of the two are entirely different and there are approximately 10 times as many calories in coconut milk. Not something you would want, especially if you are trying to lose weight.

For me it's not a weight issue. I drink coconut water because I like it and because of its health benefits. Born in the carribean I enjoyed coconut water on a daily basis. Coconut water was like sweet soda to me.
Did you know that coconut water hydrates us even better than ordinary drinking water. Coconut water is rich in dietary fiber, enzymes, vitamin C, minerals (such as magnesium and potassium) and amino acids. But at the same time it is low in calories, chlorides and cholesterol. These properties make it useful for people trying to loose weight (by speeding up their metabolism and creating a feeling of fullness). By applying coconut water directly on your skin, you will keep it hydrated and balance its pH levels, leading to reduced acne, less visible signs of ageing, stretch marks, and cellulite and even treat eczema. Drinking coconut water will also help boost your immune system and fight the symptoms of the common cold and flu; keep your cardiovascular health in top shape and aid the kidneys in filtering the toxins and thus reducing the risk of kidney stones.

Health Benefits of Coconut Water



1. Reduce high blood pressure
   Coconut water is high in potassium and some studies have reported that low levels of potassium has been linked to high blood pressure. Therefore, drinking coconut water regularly can help in regulating blood pressure.Similar recent studies also have found that coconut water can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol, which makes it an excellent natural treatment for maintaining good cardiovascular health.
2. Strengthen the Immune System
   The lauric acid in Coconut water has antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiprotozoal properties, which help strengthen the body’s immune system against a variety of viruses and illness.
3. Keep Body Hydrated
   Since coconut water is pack with all five of the same electrolytes that the body has, including potassium, magnesium, chloride, calcium and sodium. Altogether, play an important role in keeping the body hydrated during physical activities. Even the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have fought for a patent in 2000 to promote coconut water as the next big sports drink.
4. Helps Lose Weight
   Coconut water is low in calories and 99% fat-free. A serving of coconut water has just 46 calories. So regular intake of coconut water can help shed unwanted pounds by increasing the metabolic rate.
5. Aids in Digestion and Metabolism
   Coconut water contains various bioactive enzymes such as acid phosphatase, catalase, dehydrogenase, diastase, peroxidase and RNA polymerases, which help to overcome the problem of digestion and metabolism. Drinking of coconut water on a regular basis has been shown effective in dealing abdomen discomfort.
6. Improve Blood Circulation
   Coconut water is also good source of fiber, vitamin C and protein which can help in improving blood circulation and heart rate.
7. Good for Pregnant Women
   Coconut water is an efficient natural remedy for pregnant women who suffer from acidity, constipation and heartburn problems. It is also helps boost the levels of amniotic fluid, which plays a vital role in the overall wellness of the baby. With such great benefits, it is no wonder that coconut water is recommended for pregnant women.
8. Treats Urinary Infections
   Coconut water is a natural diuretic which helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTI) as well as relieve the kidney stones problem.
9. Promotes Skin Health
   Coconut water acts as a light moisturizer which also decreases excessive oil on the skin. This proves to be beneficial for smoothing the skin as well. It can be used directly to a bath or mix with liquid shower gel. This natural water is also best for treating acne and blackheads as well.
10. Increase Energy Levels
    The lauric acid in coconut water stimulates the production of thyroid hormones, thereby increasing your metabolic rate, which in turn increase your energy level.

As I'm about to enjoy a full month's holiday in the caribbean, visiting the Commonwealth of Dominica, I'll be making sure to take full advantage of all the healthy foods the lovely nature island has to offer me.