Not to be confused with coconut milk, coconut water is the clear liquid found in young coconuts before they mature. While coconut water is actually 94 percent water, it is loaded with nutrients like calcium, iron, antioxidants, fiber, energy supplying B vitamins, and electrolytes (potassium, sodium, and magnesium) that help maintain fluid balance. Additionally, the bioactive enzymes in young green coconuts help aid digestion and metabolism, potentially helping promote weight-loss. If that’s not fantastic enough, young coconuts may also keep you young. The Cytokinins, an anti-aging plant hormone, found in coconut water regulates growth and aging. These plant hormones regulate cell division and the rate at which plants age. The good news is this same anti-aging effect benefits human cells and tissues, too.

In emergency situations, coconut water has been used as a substitute blood transfusion. This is because coconut water shares the same level of electrolytic balance found in human blood, making it a truly isotonic beverage. Incorporate coconut water into your daily diet as it will keep you super hydrated, regulate your electrolyte balance, possibly help you shed a few pounds, and keep you looking younger.

Fresh coconut water is truly natural, void of added sugars, flavors, and artificial colors.

Here is how it compares to the popular sports drink Gatorade.

COCONUT WATER             GATORADE
46 calories                                   63 calories
8.9 g. carbohydrates                 16 g. carbohydrates
1.78 g. protein                             0 g. protein
>1g. fat                                         0 g. fat
6.26 g. sugar                               16 g. sugar
2.6 g. fiber                                   0 g. fiber
600 mg. potassium                    4.6 mg. potassium
252 mg. sodium                         95 mg. sodium
Iron 4%                                       Iron 1%
Calcium 6%                                Calcium 0%
Vitamin C 10%                           Vitamin C 2%