Maybe you heard about coconut water while reading a health magazine. Maybe you noticed that all the celebs in your tabloids now seem to be carrying coconut water everywhere they go. We’re not here to judge your reading preferences – but we do know that one way or another, coconut water has become ubiquitously associated with good health and diet practices, and here’s why:
1. Electrolytes. Coconut water contains electrolytes such as magnesium and calcium, but lack fat and cholesterol, meaning that you get a big benefit from the drink without any compromise. Interesting fact: These drinks have been recommended in place of water to rehydrate you after a night of drinking or just staying out late, because of these natural, system-boosting properties.
2. Affordable. Many athletes prefer to spend a few dollars for a coconut milk than $2 or more on popular fruity juices with artificially added electrolytes. This product may be priced lower than sports drinks of the same size because those drinks require extra processing to manufacture, while coconut water is easy to harvest, without modifications, from several countries where the fruit/nut/seed (it’s technically all three) grows in abundance.
3. Eco-friendly. Because the coconut is grown efficiently and can be harvested without harming the environment, it’s considered an earth-friendly drink. Some coconut water drinks also come in eco-friendly encasement, which may make these products your preference over other brands.
There are several brands of coconut water (which is different than coconut milk, a processed product of coconut meat), which you can find on most grocery store shelves. There are even flavored options, like strawberry or chocolate. Best of all, the FDA allows coconut water packaging to say that the product may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and strokes. Try it out and let us know what you think!