guy drinking coconut water from a carton. He was one
of those guys who wore spandex shorts and those
shoes with the toes in them to lift weights. I thought
to myself, here we go, another "trendy drink"
has emerged. I'll admit, I was curious how it tasted
and went out and bought some. Not gonna lie, I wasn't
a fan! In fact if I remember correctly I didn't finish it
and gave it to my daughter Chelsey who seemed
to enjoy it. As the months passed I heard more about
the benefits of coconut water and decided to revisit
it. First, let's not get coconut water confused with coconut oil or milk. Coconut water is a clear liquid that comes from the center green coconuts. It is lower on fat and calories than coconut oil and milk. However, coconut oil has amazing health properties which I will cover in a future blog.
Claimed Benefits Of Coconut Water
At first appearance, coconut water is an almost clear water like liquid that has a bit of a sweet taste with a hint of nutty flavour. It contains about 40 calories per cup. Being cholesterol free and low in fat, it makes a great drink during workouts. It contains more potassium than a banana to help fuel workouts.
Marketing campaigns refer to it as "Mother Nature's sports drink" because of it's ability to keep you hydrated. The potassium found in the coconut water is good for heart health as helps regulate blood pressure. There have been claims that it can also help fight certain types of cancers, kidney stones and contains anti-aging properties.
Coconut water does indeed have properties good for health. It is however not a health serum which will heal all ailments. Potassium is found in many foods including bananas, potatoes, beans, lentils, spinach and yogurt. Eating or drinking one particular food will not prevent illness. When combined with a sensible nutrient dense diet and exercise, it will contribute to good health.
Coconut Water As A Sports Drink?
So back to the guy in the gym drinking his carton of coconut water... Is it "Mother Nature's Sports Drink" as the advertisement claims? It is high in potassium and magnesium which are important for athletic performance. In fact from the research I've found, one serving contains as much potassium as four bananas! It also contains no artificial sweeteners or added sugar and is dye free. Intense exercise for an extended period of time affects sodium and potassium levels as you sweat. Your carbohydrate stores are depleted as well. Coconut water will not help replenish blood glucose and muscle glycogen levels and although it does contain calories, won't in and of itself be able to restore calories lost.
Coconut Water Vs Sports Drinks Sugar and Calories
8oz Unsweetened Coconut Water
40 Calories
9 Grams of sugar
8oz Gatorade
50 Calories
14 Grams of sugar
Lowering your sugar and caloric intake is great for people looking to lose body fat.
My Verdict
Coconut water contains 430 milligrams of potassium per an 8 oz serving. It is a more natural beverage than sports drinks and processed juices. It is a good way to stay hydrated while providing more nutrients than plain water. However, in my opinion, I haven't been fully convinced that it is the miracle cure all for diseases such as cancers and heart disease or enhancing sports performance to your fullest potential. I've found the flavour to be somewhat of an "acquired" taste. While it does have fewer calories, sodium, and sugar than most sports drinks, I think I will stick with drinking water flavoured with fruit such as lemon or 100% Natural Seltzer to hydrate during my workouts. I find it's easier on the taste buds and the wallet. To replenish blood glucose and muscle glycogen levels I prefer to do that with my post workout meal. I find eating a high protein, moderate carbohydrate meal (or smoothie) immediately after a workout will replenish most nutrients lost as well provide the building blocks for repair and growth of the muscle tissue.
So, at the end of the day... My opinion... Coconut water is an overpriced trendy drink riding on the fame of coconut oil and milk... But, that's just my opinion! Agree? Disagree? Let me know your thoughts!