Have you jumped on the coconut water bandwagon yet?
Everyone’s love of coconut water has seemed to have gone viral in the UK after reaching our shores a few years ago. This refreshing drink that reminds everyone of white sandy beaches and far away places has gradually picked up in popularity for its health benefits as well as its taste.
Coconut water is harvested from unripened coconuts. It is very easy to confuse coconut water with coconut milk as when the coconut ripens the coconut water becomes part of the flesh and used in the production of coconut milk. The nutritional value of coconut water is second to none and is low in calories and high in potassium. It is also high in electrolyte, vitamins and minerals, making it extremely hydrating for the body.
Personally, coconut water has become one of my favourite drinks and I try to drink at least 3-4 small cartons a week if I can. They were my go-to choice of drink after my hot yoga classes to help recoup all of the water that I had sweated out.
Here are some of my top 10 reasons why we should all be drinking more coconut water:
1. Despite its sweet taste, it contains very little sugar content
2. Unlike fizzy drinks, coconut water is considered to be a low-calorie drink as it’s low in cholesterol
3. It can boost an individual’s metabolism, which can be useful if you are looking to lose a little weight
4. It’s high levels of potassium, helps keep the water pressure locked in your cells as a way to keep your bodies fluid levels consistent and the well hydrated. Therefore, it is great if you are suffering from a bout of diarrhoea (sorry if you are eating right now!)
5. It helps facilitate digestion through the activation of bioenzymes, which can also help the absorption of food, meaning that you get more nutrition from your meals
6. Due to it’s high electrolyte content, improvement in nerve function and transmission are apparent which can be beneficial in preventing muscle cramps
7. Known to protect against ageing through compounds called cytokinins
8. It has a high Lauric content which can help to fight immune infections as a result of its anti-fungal and anti-viral activity
9. Deemed as a healthier and more natural alternative to a sports drink – it contains high levels of isotonics like a traditional sports drink without all the sugar
10. Studies have shown that coconut water can improve blood pressure and blood circulation
Recently I have chugged down cartons of Chi Coconut Water, which is a new to me brand of coconut water. I like to store mine in the fridge so that it’s already chilled and ready for me to drink. The already portioned carton sizes are useful as they are easily portable – they are a great addition to any gym bag!
These coconut waters come in an array of flavours if you are not a fan of the natural flavour. My personal favourite was the Tropical Fruits flavour in this range with the Espresso being my least favourite. The Chocolate flavour would be great to make a healthy version of a hot chocolate. Chi Coconut Water retails at around £1.60 from Ocado, but I’ve also seen it in other health food stores too.
You can follow Chi Coconut Water on Twitter and Facebook.
Are you a fan of coconut water? Do you have any favourite brands or flavours?
*items were sent for review
Interestingly I just tried a new coconut water with my breakfast this morning. It was a new one from m&s with watermelon. I have only tried coconut water a couple of times and wasn’t too keen but it is something I want to like hence me trying again! I have to be honest though and I don’t think coconut water is really for me, I just can’t make myself like it!
I haven’t tried coconut water over here, I had it in Kenya, straight from the coconut. I am hearing a lot about it though very recently and will certainly be looking to give it a try! Thnks for a great post.
I love coconut, also love pina coladas and non alcoholic versions. I will look out for this drink when I am in the shops next.
I love coconut water – saw this brand being sold in WH Smith’s too. I like to drink it when I’m out shopping as I tend not to drink as much due to being busy, so need my hydration!
I love coconut water but still haven’t tried chi coconut water I better get on this as it sounds so good!
I love coconut water, I usually have Vita Coco, or Pret’s own brand. I like the pineapple flavoured version. It’s lovely after a Bikram Yoga class- so refreshing!
Such a bunch of good reasons here Gemma! I love to sneak coconut water in smoothies as Im not really a fan of the taste and sumer is a great time to start adding coconut water into your diet!
I’ve never tried coconut water, but I might just have to look into it!
I love coconut water! I have tried that brand and like the tropical fruit one too. I tried some Zico chocolate coconut water but it had a weird texture and so I don’t think I would try it again. I like the Vita coco stuff with mango too. I have not tried a brand I didn’t like- I often buy what is on offer! 🙂
I bloody love coconut water and always use it for recovery after long runs/speed work.
I LOVE coconut water, I like to drink it straight from the young coconut! So refreshing and delicious!
I LOVE coconut water. I have also gotten my husband on the bandwagon too.
it also goes well with rum 😉
Hahaha! I will have to test that after the baby arrives 🙂
I received a carton of coconut water in a goody bag last year and was so surprised at how refreshing it was. I haven’t tried the Chi brand before though. Interesting to see some different flavours in there.