Loco over coco…nut

Coconut- I’ve always been a fan. Whether it’s the scent of my moisturiser, my selected flavour at Pinkberry, alcoholic drink (Yes, I actually enjoy Malibu and No, I’m not hardcore), or filled in my M&Ms (best flavour yet!), I can’t resist coconut. Ironically enough, I’ve never been a fan of coconut water. Although today my sister was sipping on a coconut after our gym session and it looked SO refreshing (and fun :)) to drink. After a few sips, the liquid grew on me and it’s actually quite delicious.

For the longest time, my mom has been urging me to drink coconut water because ‘it’s so good for you’. I didn’t realise just HOW good it was for you. Containing the same level of electrolytic balance as we have in our blood, coconut water is a natural hydrator.  Sport drinks’ manufacturers like Gatorade and Lucozade are a thing of the past. Coconut water is rich in the electrolyte potassium (which is lost in sweat), packing twice as much as a banana. It also contains the same amount of carbs as a slice of bread, without any fat or protein. It’s a perfect post-workout beverage: replenishing without the syrupy/artificial flavour.

Coconut water is also an excellent drink for sick/hungover people who find it difficult to digest solid food. It replenishes the body with various mineral and vitamins which it would otherwise not get. Other benefits of drinking this “magic juice” include:

  • Enhances our blood circulation, and hence retains the glow of our skin and removes signs of stress and tiredness
  • Keeps the body cool and also aids in maintaining a normal body temperature
  • Aids in the absorption of drugs taken
  • Helps to raise the metabolism rate of the body, thereby promoting weight loss
  • Boosts the immunity system, and strengthens the body’s ability to detoxify and fight diseases
  • Serves an effective digestive tract cleanser
  • Controls diabetes
  • Aids your body in fighting viruses that cause the flu, herpes, and AIDS
  • Helps keep the pH balance in check, thereby reducing the risk of cancer

Would I drink it every day? Probably not if I was living in London as I think £2 per carton is a bit ridiculous. No single food/drink has the answer to everything. BUT, as I am living in Mumbai where it’s literally delivered to my doorstep (mat?), I will be drinking it every day. In most cases, I would rather eat the fruit than drink it but with only 17.4 calories per 100ml, coconut water is an exception to the rule**. In my view, coconut water is a diet enhancer, not a necessity so if the option is available, I wouldn’t turn it down. Plus especially when it is served in an actual coconut, it’s just that much more fun to drink!. All I need is a beach and I am set :)!

** The reason why it’s not as caloric as coconut milk/cream is because the latter is liquid purée of coconut meat.

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