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Coconut water is the natural sports drink
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Coconut water (M.M.King)
If you crack open a coconut, the clear juice that runs out is coconut water (not to be confused with coconut milk) and it’s the latest rage in sports drinks.
Coconut water has the same electrolyte balance as our blood, making it a better choice than other sports drinks for rehydrating after a strenuous workout in hot weather or during an illness involving vomiting or diarrhea. In fact, coconut water is so naturally aligned with our bodies’ composition, that during World War II in the Pacific, it was used as intravenous hydration and for emergency plasma transfusions. Wasn’t that also an episode on Lost?
While it will be of no interest to readers of this nutrition column, who only imbibe in moderation, coconut water is also helpful for hangover relief.
A proper balance of electrolytes is necessary for regulating blood pressure and for muscle coordination, heart and nerve function and concentration. Coconut water contains all of the essential electrolytes including magnesium, sodium, phosphorus and calcium, and is higher in potassium than most sports drinks and higher even than bananas. It has about 15 grams of natural sugar per serving but no added processed sugars, unlike most sports drinks which can have as much as 14 grams of processed sugars including high fructose corn syrup.
The funny thing about coconut water is that it doesn’t taste like coconut. Some say it has an almond flavor or a mineral taste. Drink it plain or you can mix it with orange juice or your daily pomegranate juice, or use it in smoothies instead of water. Vendors are also producing flavored versions including tangerine, pineapple, acai and passion fruit, which might be a good way to begin experimenting.
Whole Foods carries several brands including Vita Coco and O.N.E. You can also find it at Weaver’s Way Co-op, Genuardi’s and some Giant stores.
Coconut water is best served chilled and it might take a little getting used to, but it’s worth weaning yourself and especially your children off sugary sports drinks, and substituting an all natural alternative.
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