What do you usually take when you’re thirsty? While some may consider water, sodas, or sports drinks, there are those who prefer taking coconut water.
Not only is it a healthy alternative, but it’s also a great sports drink substitute too. This is because it has a high electrolyte content and no added sugar, unlike artificially-made sports drinks.
On average, a human body loses up to 2.5 liters of water each day. And while sports drinks can replenish the lost nutrients and electrolytes, they can still carry a high amount of sugar. If you’re a health buff who wants to look for more natural alternatives, coconut water can be your new best friend. This liquid is extracted from young and mature coconuts, then filtered and purified. There are no added sugars, making this a low-calorie beverage. Let’s take a look at the reasons why coconut water can be your new favorite thirst quencher.
It contains all five of the essential electrolytes
Calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium are the five essential electrolytes the body needs in order to function properly. Coconut water has been found to contain high levels of these, making it ideal for rehydrating the body. Unlike taking plain water alone, the electrolytes help the body rehydrate faster. This restores the body’s fluid balance faster to re-energize it, especially during long periods of physical activity.
It’s a good sports drink alternative.
While other sports drinks have added sugar and high fructose corn syrup, coconut water is naturally occurring. The high levels of potassium, magnesium and sodium are also vital to helping the body regain the lost minerals. Unlike other sports drinks that rely on preservatives and added sugar, coconut water has neither artificial additives nor coloring.
If you’re worried about them not lasting as long as artificial sports drinks, there are ways to preserve the coconut water’s shelf life. Two of these include pasteurization and UHT processing, making them keep for up to 8 months. In-container sterilization can even make them last for up to 2 years in non-refrigerated conditions. This makes it suitable for long-term storage in bottles and cartons for easy consumption by athletes.
It aids in digestion
Coconut water contains high amounts of fiber. This aids in digestion and also prevents acid reflux. In fact, a study even indicated that this beverage is less likely to cause nausea and stomach upsets. This makes it easier to maintain your digestive health by flushing out wastes more efficiently. It can also help control your blood sugar levels.
It has a high nutrient content
Among the nutrients it contains, coconut water also has high levels of ascorbic acid and B-complex vitamins. This helps you release energy faster from the food you eat and keeps you feeling full longer. As an added benefit, coconut water also contains anti-oxidants which help prevent free radicals. This can help keep the body functional.
It’s a great hangover cure
Dehydration and loss of electrolytes are the reasons why hangovers are common. While water can replace the lost fluids when you wake up, your body needs to replace the other electrolytes that were lost. Coconut water can help stabilize your body when you have a hangover because it contains high amounts of potassium.
Whether you need something to quench your thirst or rehydrate your body quickly, try taking coconut water as a pick-me-up. Not only does it act as a great sports drink alternative, but it’s also a natural tonic to boost your body’s energy levels quickly.
