Written and Published by BMT Foods, April 8, 2020
Those who live in the sunny tropics are no stranger to the refreshing, nutty drink derived from the coconut—it has been a signature drink of the warmer regions of our planet for many centuries. But as coconut water offers many natural health advantages, in recent years it has become very popular around the world, especially among the health-conscious. Let’s explore some of the naturally-occurring health benefits of coconut water.
1. Natural Source of Electrolytes
Coconut water is rich in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium and calcium, making it an excellent natural alternative to processed, sugary sports drinks like Gatorade. Drinking coconut water can help keep you hydrated after a workout without the added sugar or extra calories. In addition, the extra high potassium content in coconut water is good for warding off cramps.
2. Good for Weight Loss and Diabetes
Coconut water is a low-calorie drink, which means people trying to lose weight can enjoy it freely without worrying too much about exceeding their calorie allotment. In addition, coconut water is fairly low in sugar, which makes it a good alternative drink for diabetics. Early studies have even suggested coconut water may help lower blood sugar.
3. May Help Regulate Blood Pressure
The potassium found in coconut water does more than just help rehydrate you—it can also lower your blood pressure. In one study, 71 percent of participants with high blood pressure saw a significant drop in their systolic reading after drinking coconut water. Since potassium has the ability to offset the effects of sodium on blood pressure, a glass of coconut water after a high-sodium meal may help keep your blood pressure from spiking.
4. May be Good for Heart Health
Early testing offers some promise that coconut water may reduce cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, helping to improve heart health. While it would require large quantities of coconut water to match the cholesterol-reducing effects of statin drugs, coconut water can be a wonderful addition to a heart-healthy diet.
5. Rich in Antioxidants
Finally, coconut water is an excellent source of antioxidants which reduce oxidative stress in the body. The amino acids and cytokinins in coconut water can reduce inflammation in the body, reducing the risk of cancer, heart disease and other health issues.
BMT Foods is proud to offer coconut water in both concentrate and not-from-concentrate forms, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about our products. Reach out to us today to learn more.
