Drinking coconut water in the heat of the sun is very refreshing, especially if you know the benefits of coconut water for our health. But don't be mistaken, because there are several fallacy around coconut water benefits that circulated among public. Although we can not deny that coconut water contains a number of nutrients needed by our bodies, such as folate, magnesium, vitamin C, and so on (read at coconut water nutrition).
Some misperceptions about coconut water circulating in the community such as, coconut water is believed to lose weight, boost immunity, prevent kidney stones, and so forth. In this post, health fame will give some facts from various sources of error. But, we will discuss the benefits first.
Coconut water benefits
Rich in potassium
In coconut water contained amino acids and vitamins, coconut water also contains phytochemical components such as tannins. Tannins are antibacterial which will inhibit the growth of bacteria. The highest content of minerals from coconut water is potassium, as much as 730 mg per 100 grams of coconut water, which is quite a lot of magnesium, and chloride, while sodium amount is very small. The composition ratio of drinks with a high potassium to sodium is very beneficial for health.
Nutritional composition near isotonic fluid, which corresponds to the body fluids. Isotonic drinks to replace minerals lost through sweating body during exercise or other activities. Only, those who actively exercise need to be careful about the use of coconut water as an electrolyte drink.
Replacing lost ions
Coconut water can be considered as isotonic water because of ions contain that able to replace lost ions especially in the case of dehydration. In coconut water contains ions needed by the body such as Na +, and others. Therefore, to help meet the needs of ion body, you can take advantage of coconut water.
Maintain the electrolyte balance
Coconut water is an isotonic fluid, so it can replace the minerals and electrolytes lost along with body fluids. Even the world food organization or the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) has been researching and trying to patent the coconut water as an isotonic beverage.
Anti-bacteria
Not many studies that prove this, but some experts believe coconut water potent viruses and other microorganisms get rid of pathogens (disease-causing). The content of monolaurin in it is believed to eradicate potent flu virus and herpes.
Coconut water benefits fallacy
Above are only a little health benefits of coconut water, now we will talk about miss perception about it.
Boost the immune system
There is no scientific literature that proves that coconut water makes the immune system becomes better and also help the body fight some viruses that cause disease. Immune system in the body is a very complex system. The only way to boost the immune system is a nutrient derived from a variety of foods. That could give complete nutritional support is through the intake of foods with balanced nutrition.
Helps lose weight
It is often misunderstood by most people. Excessive drinking coconut water can actually cause diarrhea. It seems-after weight loss. However, this is not the right and healthy way to get the ideal body weight. Instead, coconut water can be used as a stimulant for those who constipation because it can help smooth the digestive tract.
More nutritious than whole milk
This is not true. Compared with coconut water, milk (either full cream or not) are rich in protein, fat, carbohydrates, and sugar. In addition, milk also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B complex, vitamin D, calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium. While coconut water contains only a few minerals only.
Cure kidney stones
The first thing that can be done to prevent the formation of kidney stones is enough water or fluid intake. The fluid can be obtained from coconut water, mineral water, and more. There is truth in that water, either. coconut water or mineral water, can prevent the formation of kidney stones. Only, coconut water can not cure kidney stones.
It would be wise if we can learn more, because all benefits and fallacy above could be right or wrong. So, lets wait the latest research.