Coconut water is not only an incredibly popular thirst-quencher, but it packs quite the nutritional punch as well.
Here are seven little-known coconut water nutrition facts and how they can benefit your health:
1. Coconut water is mostly just … water.
I’m sure you already know you need to drink enough fluids so you can keep your body healthy and adequately hydrated. Just like its name suggests, coconut water contains about 95% water. This makes it an excellent hydration drink. Coconut water can hydrate your body just as well as healthy water (the mother of all hydrating beverages).
2. It’s low in calories.
Unlike plain water, coconut water is not entirely calorie-free, but at 42 calories per serving (240g), it’s still a pretty low-calorie drink. This makes it an excellent replacement for any one of your regular, sugar-sweetened beverages and when used like this, coconut water can help you reach your weight loss goals.
3. It contains potassium.
Potassium is a vital mineral in your body. You need enough of it if you want your brain and nervous system to function correctly. Coconut water can help provide some of that much-needed potassium. One serving of coconut water will cover about 13% of your daily potassium needs.
4. It contains magnesium.
Magnesium is another essential component of our diet, yet only 32% of people consume enough magnesium. If your body is running low on magnesium, that could cause low energy levels or even lead to dangerous health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and osteoporosis. A serving of coconut water takes care of about 14% of your daily magnesium needs.
5. It contains copper.
Copper is another essential mineral for your health. Without copper, your organs and your metabolism directly can’t work like a well-oiled machine. One serving of coconut water will provide about 11% of your daily copper requirements.