The products of the coconut palm are vast and, in some parts of the tropics, one tree provides almost all that is necessary for a family to feed and support itself. We’ll be focusing on just the nutritional benefits of the water from a young coconut.
The water taken directly from a young coconut has a perfectly balanced pH level and is loaded with nutrients. The water serves as a natural rehydrant as it contains natural sugars, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium and calcium as well as antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, growth factors and a variety of trace elements. It contains no cholesterol or fat. During World War II, when sterile glucose solutions ran out, coconut water was siphoned directly from the coconut and fed intravenously to patients.
Coconut water is the richest natural source of cytokinins which are plant growth hormones. These cytokinins may produce an anti-aging effect on the body by keeping cells healthy and reducing the risk of developing degenerative diseases. Here are some more of the health benefits from coconut water:
• Helps regulate blood pressure and improves circulation,
• Prevents abnormal blood clotting,
• Aids kidney function (including the elimination of kidney stones) and urinary tract /bladder function,
• Helps balance blood sugar in diabetics,
• Improves digestion,
• Relieves constipation or diarrhea,
• Provides nutritional support for healthy skin and the prevention of osteoporosis.
Packaged coconut water can be found in many grocery stores these days. Keep in mind that the processing and pasteurization required in the packaging of coconut water will eliminate some of its health benefits but certainly not all. Whole young coconuts from Asia can be found in most Asian markets and some grocery stores.