Is Coconut Water Really Good For You?

What You Should Know

Now, we aren’t saying that coconut water is terrible. It does live up to some parts of its reputation, but the idea that it’s some sort of miracle cure is blatantly wrong. One thing that you should always consider is that if it really was so miraculous, it would be actively prescribed by doctors and used in hospitals. In reality, TIME magazine found that ⅘ experts would not recommend the beverage.

Still, coconut water is a good hydrator. It’s a natural isotonic drink that can provide some of the same benefits as formulated sports drinks. However, it isn’t very high in either potassium or sodium, which are both essential electrolytes that need to be replaced after consistent sweating. Additionally, most people, even if they exercise on a regular basis, do not do enough to even need to hydrate with anything other than water. Although you might think otherwise, sports drinks are mainly for elite athletes, or those among us that exercise solidly for more than one hour a day.

Another big claim by coconut water lovers is that it slows down aging. They claim that is gives you smooth, youthful skin because it’s a natural source of cytokinins, a group of plant hormones that help to regulate skin growth. However, whether you drink it or pour it directly on your skin, there’s no science to back this one up.

Some people also look to coconut water to regulate their blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. Most experts agree that, although some preliminary studies have shown the drink can improve circulation, lower elevated blood pressure and more, it’s not yet conclusive enough. Certainly, it’s not at the point where you can jump on the bandwagon, and give up traditional medicine.

Additionally, it’s worth remembering that although coconut water lovers advocate drinking buckets of the stuff, it’s not likely to have any positive effect, especially if you’re working to lose weight. On the contrary, coconut water can be high in carbohydrates, and is not a kilojoule-free drink, which is what you’re probably looking for to shift those kilograms.

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Clare Whitfield Chief Editor

Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney, she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

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