The taste of coconut often divides people into two groups: you either love it or you hate it. If you belong to the second group, you probably stay away from coconut water. But whether you like it or not: is coconut water healthy or is it more like a soft drink?
According to the Nutrition Center, coconut water is not something you should consume daily. It is considered a sugary drink by the nutrition organization and does not have a place in the Wheel of Five. In addition to water – it consists of 95 percent of it – it also contains fibers, proteins, and sugar. A large glass of coconut water (250 ml) contains 45 calories and 10 grams of sugar. That’s 2.5 sugar cubes, quite a lot.
Coconut water is isotonic, just like sports drinks. This means that a drink contains the same concentration of sugars and salts as the fluids in our body. This allows the intestinal tract to absorb the salts and sugars more easily, which also helps to boost the fluid level in your body more quickly. This is useful during exercise.
Does the fact that coconut water contains sugar mean that it is equivalent to cola and should be avoided? Not really. The substance actually has a few benefits, such as containing a lot of potassium and calcium, antioxidants, and electrolytes, and it may have a positive effect on your cholesterol. It is also claimed to be good for your heart and kidneys, and may even reduce acne.
In conclusion, while coconut water may contain sugar, it also offers various health benefits such as providing essential nutrients, antioxidants, and potentially improving cholesterol levels. It can be a good option for hydration, especially during exercise. Remember to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet to reap its benefits without overloading on sugar.