1/25 Drinkin It Up Coconut Water
I love the way things happen naturally if you are willing to let them unfold. Taking the job at Trader Joe’s has encouraged my path to intersect with so many new and interesting people that are consuming, using and enjoying so many new and interesting products. One of those new and interesting things for me is coconut water. I have started to suck it down, so I wanted to share what I have read and heard.
In perspective, I have a healthy dose of skepticism for anything with multiple claims of healing magnificence, but I also respect the fact that there are many, many things I know nothing about and am willing and excited to learn. So far, the information about Coconut water indicates it is a wonderful thing to have in the fridge.
Coconut water improves digestion and helps with the absorption of other nutrients including a variety of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Coconut water improves calcium and magnesium absorption and can improve insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose.
Compared to leading sports drinks, it contains fifteen times more potassium which regulates blood pressure, heart function, and maintains hydration. Coconut water also aids in hydrating your skin, hair and your nails for a youthful, vibrant glow. Other proclaimed health benefits of coconut water are increased muscle performance, mental acuity, natural energy, stress reduction and kidney cleansing properties.
The thing that I really like about coconut water is that it is a natural sports drink. I will indulge in the low sugar hydrating sports drinks when I am running and enjoying higher endurance workouts, but I don’t love them because they are strange colors and full of chemicals. Of course I consume water en masse, but sometimes I want something more than water to feel hydrated. I love the idea of a naturally hydrating beverage that tastes delish and is void of added sugar and Dr Suess like coloring. Bonus.
Photo BY: S. Duquet
So far I have tried the Zico brand in Original and Mango. I am not crazy about the Original, but I really love the Mango. They have ben a fun addition to our vegan pantry and gym bag. If you are already a coconut water convert, please share.
Have a delicious day.
Coconut water information from Natural Health Lifestyles and Zico
Tags: coconut water, coconut water health drink, compassionate eating, dairy free, going veg, mango coconut water, plant based diet, trying vegan, trying vegetarian, vegan, vegan experience, vegan products, vegan wannabe, Zico
January 25th, 2011 at 8:44 pm
I first tried coconut water last year when it was in the post-race goody bag at the Free Press marathon and was not impressed. In fact, I was a little grossed out. I forgot about it for a few months until I started to read up on the health benefits and ended up giving it another shot. Maybe because I knew what to expect or my taste buds were influenced by how good it was for me, but I liked it a lot better the second time. It’s especially refreshing after an intense outdoor workout so I would drink it 1-2 times a week during the summer. My dad was recently really sick for days so I suggested he drink some to help replenish his electrolytes. He wasn’t a fan but dutifully drank it!
Anyway, I usually drink O.N.E. or Vita Coco, only in original flavor. Never tried a flavored one.
January 31st, 2011 at 10:53 pm
Amanda, what a nice thing to put in a runners gift bag. I am always happy with just a banana and bagel.
I completely agree, the first time I tasted coconut water I thought it was a cruel joke. Now that I have learned more about it and consume it well chilled…I have changed my tune. It is alot more refreshing than I gave it credit for after my first taste test.
Thank you for sharing the ones you have tried.