Should I Spend Money on Coconut Water?
Within the world of nutrition there will always be hype around new “super” foods and beverages. One such beverage is coconut water. The coconut water enthusiasts claim its tonic cures everything from hangovers to cancer. The US coconut market grew from $110 to $400 million in 2013.
So why the hype?
Well for one, professional athletes credit its wonders for their epic achievements. John Isner who played the record holding 11 hour round of tennis in the 2010 Wimbledon tournament drank coconut water to keep from cramping.
Coconut Water vs. Gatorade
Coconut water is nicknamed Mother Nature’s Sports drink. Compared to Gatorade it contains fewer calories from natural sugars, more potassium and less sodium.
- One ounce of coconut water
- 5.45 calories
- 1.3 gm sugar
- 61 mg potassium
- 5.45 mg sodium
- One ounce of Gatorade
- 6.25 calories
- 1.75 gm sugar
- 3.75 mg potassium
- 13.75 mg sodium
So What?
Potassium is a great way to… (read more about the Benefits of Potassium).
Sugar matters because
Sugar matters because
Conclusion
If you enjoy the taste of coconut water and don’t mind the cost, it is a fine option. Just drink it with the awareness that no single food or beverage choice is super enough to work miracles. When it comes to good health you can count on the basics. Choices like filtered water, fresh fruits and vegetables, wild-fed meat, poultry and fish, sunshine, laughter, exercise, rest, passion, and friendship are the tried and true super choices of good health.
