Coconut-Water-1Low in calories, naturally fat and cholesterol-free, more potassium than four bananas, and super hydrating. What is it? Coconut water!

Dubbed “Mother Nature’s Sports Drink”, coconut water has been known to help with a whole host of conditions, from hangovers to cancer to kidney stones.

Despite its consistency, it has a better composition of vitamins and minerals than most fruit juices.

Most don’t get enough potassium in their diets because they don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables, so coconut water can help fill in those nutritional gaps.

Without further ado, here are the top 10 health benefits of coconut water:

1. Rehydration
100 ml of coconut water provides 250 mg of potassium and 105 mg of sodium, both of which help replenish electrolyte deficiency in the body due to dehydration.

2. Digestion
Naturally occurring bioactive enzymes found in coconut water aid in preventing indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux.

3. Weight
Due to the rich nature of contents, it suppresses the appetite, makes you feel full, and reduces cravings.

4. Immunity
Rich in the B-complex vitamins, coconut water has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties that can help increase your body’s immune system and fight viral infections like the flu.

5. Hangovers
Next time you overdo it and drink more than your belly can handle, consume coconut water to settle your stomach. It replaces those essential electrolytes that exit the body when you experience bouts of frequent urination and vomiting.

6. Kidney Function
Due to its high mineral content (magnesium and potassium), coconut water is beneficial to a person suffering from any kidney disease. It acts as a diuretic and increases the production and flow of urine.

7. Blood Pressure
According to research, coconut water helps improve blood circulation and lowers high blood pressure levels. According to a 2014 study in the journal Stroke, potassium may help ward off stroke and early death in women, and decreased potassium may be linked to a higher incidence of high blood pressure.

8. Blood Sugar

Coconut water moderates sugar absorption and improves insulin sensitivity.

9. Skin

Researchers have found that coconut water contains cytokinins and lauric acid which can minimize the aging of skin cells, balance PH levels, and keep your connective tissues strong and hydrated. Simply apply coconut water onto affected skin areas (acne, age spots, wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, and eczema) every night before going to bed.

10. pH

The pH of coconut water is compatible to the pH of your blood and can be used in extreme emergencies, such as blood transfusions. It is not uncommon for the drink to be used in poorer, third-world countries to save human lives.

Where can you find coconut water?

Fresh is best, and look for those that are young and green on the exterior as they usually contain a large supply of the actual coconut water substance! But if you have to buy pre-packaged coconut water, make sure it has no extra sugar added.