Coconut Water

Coconut water. We know you have heard of it. It’s not regular water. It’s not coconut milk. It has people all around the world singing its praises. But what actually is this magical and mysterious hydrating drink?

Coconut water is a lightly sweet and refreshing beverage with a subtle, nutty flavor. It is brimming with health benefits, low in calories and carbs, and made with ingredients straight from mother earth. Having gained popularity in recent years for its cooling refreshment and health benefits, PlantX has stocked up just for you!

Intrigued? Stick around and have a scroll. Treat yourself to a divine splash of hydration and give your insides the love they deserve.

What is coconut water and where does it come from? 

Coconut water is the clear water found in the center of the coconut. It is typically harvested from young green coconuts (around 6-7 months old) that are still on the coconut tree. A hole is pierced through the coconut’s exterior so that the liquid can be accessed. The coconut may spray some liquid due to the pressure released while the hole is created - but apart from a little mess... Voila! That’s how coconut water is made. Just magic from mother nature. 

While it is possible to enjoy coconut water straight from the coconut, the coconut water available here at PlantX has been lovingly parcelled up so it can be sent to your door with care. However, with an array of options with biodegradable and recyclable packaging, you can still drink your coconut water while keeping it all au natural!

What is the difference between coconut water and coconut milk?

Coconut water and coconut milk are two nutritiously nutty beverages that have gained much love in the past few years. But what is the difference between these widely cherished coconut treats? 

Coconut water and coconut milk are both derived from the coconut fruit. However, they are very different beverages. Coconut water is a sweet liquid that you can drink straight from young green coconuts, you simply need to pierce the exterior to get to it! 

Coconut milk, however, needs some processing to get the creamy and nutty milk we all know and love. Coconut milk is made from coconut flesh that has been finely grated and boiled or simmered in water. The milk is strained through a cheesecloth, leaving behind a thick and rich consistency. It can be strained multiple times to make the consistency thinner (until it’s perfect for splashing over your morning cereal!)

So, the key differences: 

1. Coconut water is made from young green coconuts while coconut milk comes from mature brown coconuts. 

2. Coconut water is a naturally occurring drink, while coconut milk requires us to work a little bit of processing magic. 

Does coconut water break my fast?

While coconut water is brimming with health benefits and low in calories, it is not the same as water. We know the name is a little confusing, however, coconut water contains simple carbohydrates. Therefore, if you are fasting, save this deliciously refreshing beverage for your eating window! 

How do I choose the healthiest coconut water?

In general, coconut water is a relatively healthy option whichever kind you select. It contains far less sugar compared to many soft or fizzy drinks and is a naturally occurring drink. The healthiest coconut water is coconut water that has been harvested straight from the nut. However, canned and cartoned versions still contain many of the same excellent health benefits. Many coconut water brands are processed by heat treatment or pasteurization to extend their shelf life. However, this does not necessarily make coconut water any less beneficial for your insides. But if you like to keep things au natural, just be careful to check the label and look for the purest coconut water you can. At PlantX, this is the kind of information we will always provide; your health is important to you - so it is important to us too! 

The health benefits of coconut water - A super drink? 

As we’ve said, coconut water has become a favored beverage in recent years. Why? In addition to being naturally delicious and a great source of hydration, coconut water is also packed with health benefits. Here are our six favorite ways that coconut water is good for you (...and why we think you should get some in your basket straight away!). 

1. Coconut water is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a natural source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and, most importantly, potassium. Not only is potassium vital for heart health and skeletal and muscular function, but the majority of Americans do not consume enough potassium. Coconut water is a great way to fill those nutritional gaps!

2. Coconut water replenishes the electrolytes lost during exercise. Electrolytes are minerals that carry out many important functions in the body, including maintaining proper fluid balance - so are very important after we finish a sweaty workout session! Coconut water is rich in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Some studies have even found coconut water may be more beneficial than water for rehydration after exercise!

3. While the research is limited, coconut water has also been said to support heart health, and in some cases, even reduce the risk of heart disease. The potassium content of coconut water is often said to be healthy for the heart. Potassium has been shown to lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects that sodium has on the body (that can cause blood pressure to rise). 

4. Coconut water may help to stabilize blood sugar levels. The magnesium in coconut water may increase insulin sensitivity and help decrease blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.

5. Coconut water also contains vitamins like vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin C. This has been linked to boosting skin health. In particular, coconut water can help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and supports skin hydration and elasticity. 

6. Finally, coconut water is a natural drink option. This means that coconut water is much lower in sugar compared to many other soft or fizzy drinks - so if you are looking to cut more sugar out of your diet, coconut water may be your friend!

All in all - coconut water has a lot going for it! Too early to call it a super drink? We think not!