20 Coconut Water Frequently Asked Questions

Owing to the fact that coconut water is popular drink, there are a number of questions that consumers ask. Some want to know if it is a laxative, alkaline/acidic,  diuretic, good for dogs and cats, hydrating than regular water, if it is fattening, good for diabetics etc. Here a compilation of 20 plus frequently asked questions about this water.

Is coconut water a laxative

Laxatives are basically defined as substances that slacken stools while improving bowel movements. They are used in the treatment and prevention of constipation.

If you are suffering from dry and hard stools, consider coconut water. It is an agent that works to improve the movement of the gastrointestinal tract. You can drink it for the entire time of your life for it effects without incurring side effects. It can be taken by all ages of people including small children.

The water might not be desirable for some people however. This is especially those with a problem with bowel movements. Consumption must be limited to the bowel tolerance, which is the maximum amount of coconut water that you can drink without lose stool.[1]

Is coconut water good for dogs

For the dogs, the water is a great source of electrolytes and any dog that is suffering from problems of the gastrointestinal tract stands a chance to benefit greatly. Undiagnosed cases of diarrhea in g=dogs could be treated using coconut water.

Apart from that, there are claims that it is a natural diuretic and therefore prevents urinary tract infections, reduce the size of kidney stones that have already formed. Some people also claim that it contains cytokinins that strengthen connective tissue and prevent dog aging.[2]

Is coconut water alkaline

Your body pH is likely to become alkaline when you take some amount of coconut water. The mechanisms to explain this could not be clear enough but the likelihood is that it facilitates the production of mucous in your stomach which helps to prevent corrosion by acid in the stomach.

To get relief from the acid, always drink a glass of coconut water half an hour after your meal. Regular consumption of the water for 2-3 months will help you get rid of the acidic conditions completely and give you a permanent relief to the condition.[3]

Is coconut water a diuretic

The water is a natural diuretic agent and can also go far to relieve you from urinary tract infections. As a diuretic agent, it helps u to get rid of any probable toxins in the body through the urine as it may increase the frequency of urination.

Research from the Philippines shows that consuming coconut water three times a week can help to reduce the size of kidney stones and the need for a surgery to get rid of the same.[4]

Is coconut water acidic

The amount of acid in coconut water is very little if any. This would be accounted for by the presence of lauric acid that is a very weak acid to bring about any acidic traces. The water in most cases exhibits alkaline properties.

This therefore implies that the water is safe for those who suffer from acidic conditions of the body for example the gastroesophageal reflux syndrome.

Is coconut water good for diabetics (diabetes type 2)

Coconut water has been found to have benefits against diabetes. Research has shown that coconut water can lower blood sugar levels and improve other health markers in diabetic animals. In one study, diabetic rats treated with coconut water maintained better blood sugar levels than other diabetic rats. The same study also found that the rats had lower levels of hemoglobin A1c, which is a measure of long-term blood sugar control.

Is coconut water fattening

The truth of the matter is that fattening could be the case if you use coconut water. If you follow the advice given by some experts and internet reviewers of taking coconut water after your work outs, the calories you burned out are likely to be cancelled out.

If you are carrying out work outs and lasting more than one hour, coconut water can be used as a fluid replacement therapy. The only thing you should do is to ensure that it is pure coconut water and not having any additives and other ingredients like sugars. This is because these additions have a negative impact on your weight.

Also, check the nutrition facts label as well. If you are seeing more than 50 calories per 8 ounce serving, chances are that the sugar or another calorie have been added to it. Always scout out for these to avoid the uncertainties resulting, apart from the expected likely benefits. All in all, the drink is good for your health if taken appropriately. It is in fact used to shed off excess weight in individuals.

Is coconut water better than water

The fact is that it better than water. This is by the simple fact that it is more hydrating and more endowed with the number of electrolytes and minerals. The coconut water is rich in potassium and low I carbohydrates and sodium, which is needed by people who need replenishment like the athletes or those in emergency units.

Bottled water lacks calories, carbohydrates, sodium or even potassium. Studies done comparing plain water, coconut water and sports drinks found that there might however be a big difference but it came out that coconut water has less effects of nausea and vomiting, no stomach upsets likely in the other drinks.[5]

Is coconut water good for diarrhea

During diarrhea, you are likely to lose a lot of electrolytes in the liquid stool. By the simple fact that coconut water has electrolytes, it helps to restore your body to balance in terms of the requirements of electrolytes.

The osmolality of tender coconut water is higher than oral rehydration therapy, ORS. It has the presence of greater biological constituents that are rich in electrolytes and amino acids, vitamin C, minerals and even enzymes. The excessive consumption could however have enhancement effects of diarrhea.

Is coconut water good for acid reflux

Drinking coconut water helps to bring about relief from the acid.  It coats the throat and the digestive tract thereby reducing the burning sensation and irritation brought about by acid reflux. Apart from that, lauric acid found in coconut water is an antiseptic agent that helps to kill the bacteria and fungus that could cause acid reflux.

Overeating could be a cause to high incidences of acid reflux. Taking a sip of coconut water before meals will help you to reduce overeating because it makes you feel full before the meal itself. This will in return help you to lose weight.

Is coconut water more hydrating than water

True to that, coconut water is more hydrating that normal water. This is simply because it has more electrolytes than the conventional water. It has 5 electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. It also has minerals.

How does coconut water taste-which coconut water tastes the best?

There so many brands of coconut water currently on market. The best brand for you to prefer in terms of taste. Since we have different tastes and preferences, you are likely to be unique in the brand you will narrow down and settle for.

How much coconut water per day and what is the best time to drink it?

Before that, always check the label to ensure that it is unflavored and always ensure that you take not more than 50 calories per one serving. Limit yourself to two servings per day. Drink it in the morning for you to get energy during the day and to rehydrate yourself after a long sleep. Then take in the afternoon to get yourself out of the slump.[8]

What coconut water has the least or no sugar?

O.N.E is an example of the coconut water that lacks sugar. It delivers energizing hydration in every sip that you take. It is a good source of potassium and it is never obtained from a concentrate. It is also good to note that it has no sugar that is added to it.

Zola coconut water is another sugarless brand. It is very fresh from the source and has taste guarantee. It gluten and GMO free. The other feature is that it is vegan and not from any concentrate. To add on that, it has zero fat added and has no sugar and zero cholesterol.

Why is coconut water pink?

This is because it contains naturally occurring variations in the levels of antioxidants such as polyphenols that can in the long run turn pink because of the enzymes. The other reasons is that the antioxidants turn pink upon exposure to the sunlight. The color is concealed using additives that are in the long run not desirable.[9]

When does coconut water go bad or expire? Will bad coconut water make you sick?

The perishability of coconut water is very high and it natural freshness is likely to go away within about 24 to 36 hours even if under refrigerated conditions, unless it is treated scientifically. It however might be long based on what is used to pack the product.

Packaging in aluminum cans can make then it have a shelf life of more than 6 months under normal conditions and about 12 months under refrigerated conditions.[10]

Will bad coconut water make you sick? It may or may not make you sick. It varies from person to person. However, as a rule of thumb any spoiled food or drink should be thrown away. Bad and fermented coconut water may lead to a parasite infection or even food food poisoning.

Is Coconut Water Paleo

The Paleo Diet is nutritional approach that emphasizes eating our ancestors used to eat. It focuses on eating foods that you can hunt or gather.
Can coconut water be considered as paleo? Yes.
Why do you need to consider as a paleolithic diet? Mainly because of the beneficial nutrients that it comes with. The water is known contain major electrolytes that that are required for the proper functioning of your body.
These electrolytes keep proper fluid balance inside and outside of your cells. They also do electrical nerve, heart, and muscular impulses.
These electrolytes include;

• Potassium
• Calcium
• Sodium
• Magnesium
• Phosphate

Coconut water also contains cytokinins which are said to have anti-ageing and cancer-fighting effects.
The water is an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory, it helps eyes, the skin, and the urinary tract.
They only property of this water that may disqualify it is the high amounts of sugar.

Coconut water vs. gatorade and pedialyte electrolytes-does coconut water have more electrolytes than Gatorade & Pedialyte

Because of the richness in the number of electrolytes, coconut water is preferred for intravenous rehydration fluid during emergency medical situations as well as during acute famine times of the year. Coconut water has been advertised and used over other well known sports drinks like Gatorade and pedialyte.

Is coconut water good for an upset stomach?

To this, it helps to promote regular bowel movements. The upset may be brought about by consumption of many indigestible and undesirable matter that may include toxins. The water helps to flush these substances out in a very short time.

Is coconut water a probiotic

The water itself is not probiotic. It does not have good bacteria. However, it can be fermented to create a homemabe probiotic treat. The drink usually goes by the name coconut water kefir.
Young green coconuts are the best for this drink.

Sources & References

[1] http://hubpages.com/health/The-Laxative-Effect-of-Coconut-Water

[2] https://pethelpful.com/dogs/coconut-consumption-dog

[3] http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/drink-coconut-water-to-get-quick-relief-from-acidity-and-heartburn-t915/

[4] http://nerdwellness.com/10-benefits-of-coconut-water-you-didnt-know-about/

[5] http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/7882330

[8] http://www.doctoroz.com/article/coconut-water-guide

[9] http://www.harmlessharvest.com/original/pink-is-ok

[10] https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-average-shelf-life-of-coconut-water-and-how-can-it-be-best-preserved