Coconut Water

With our wonderful array of the best brands online, stick around and have a scroll. Treat yourself to a divine splash of hydration from the tropics. 

Why Should We Drink Coconut Water?

Coconut water has become an increasingly treasured beverage in recent years. It’s naturally delicious, hydrating, and packed with benefits. But why should we drink it?

Here are our seven favorite reasons why you should add this refreshing beverage to your basket straight away!

It is a natural source of many minerals. It is a source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Potassium is a vital mineral for all tissues and it is thought that the majority of Americans do not consume enough. Coconut water is a great way to fill this nutritional gap. 

It may boost athletic performance. It is rich in electrolyte minerals and replenishes the electrolytes lost during exercise. Electrolytes carry out many important functions, including maintaining fluid balance (crucial after a sweaty workout!). Some studies even suggest coconut water is more beneficial than regular water after exercise.

It contains vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin C - these are all vitamins linked to boosting skin health.

While the research is limited, it has been linked to supporting heart health. The potassium in coconut water is thought to lower blood pressure. 

It may help with managing blood sugar levels. Research has shown coconut water to help manage blood sugar levels in animals. It is also rich in magnesium. Magnesium is thought to be beneficial for people with diabetes and prediabetes.

It is a natural drink. This means that coconut water is lower in sugar compared to many other soft or fizzy drinks.

It may have antioxidant properties. Coconut water contains shikimic acid and caffeic acid which studies have found to have antioxidant effects in animals. More testing on humans is needed.

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

Coconut Water Nutrition Facts

We know coconuts are packed with nutrients, but what about its water? According to the USDA, a 100g portion of unsweetened coconut water contains:

• 18 kcal Energy 
• 0.22g Protein
• 4.24g Carbohydrate
• 7mg Calcium 
• 6mg Magnesium
• 5g Phosphorus
• 165 mg Potassium
• 26 mg Sodium
• 9.9mg Vitamin C
• 0.03mg Iron, 0.02 mg Zinc & 0.008mg Copper

The exact nutritional composition and sugar levels will vary depending on the brand you purchase. Consult the product images of any coconut beverage available on PlantX for the exact measurements. 

Should Coconut Water Be Used Pre- Or Post-Workout?

Coconut water is often dubbed ‘mother nature's sports drink’. This is because it naturally contains glucose combined with the electrolyte minerals sodium and potassium - a composition found in many commercial sports drinks. But, is it best consumed before or after a workout?

Drinking it before a workout is a great way to hydrate and boost energy. One study even found that drinking coconut water pre-exercise improves the ability to work out in the heat.

After a workout, drinking it helps to replenish the lost electrolytes during the intense session. One study found that post-exercise coconut water helps rehydrate the body in a similar way to commercial carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks.

Drinking coconut water both before and after a workout has its benefits, it simply depends on what you wish to gain from your drink. If you live in a hot climate, perhaps consider drinking it before exercise. If you exercise at regular temperatures then perhaps reach for this refreshing drink as a post-workout refreshment.

Top Coconut Water Brands to Try 

Intrigued? Take a look at our top suggestions at PlantX to get you started: 

Like things au natural? Say hello to Harmless Harvest’s Organic Coconut Smoothie. Coconut water and coconut meat straight from young Thai coconuts, topped with cacao powder and sea salt. No extra ingredients, just raw organic goodness. Refreshing, hydrating, and potassium-packed - natural done right.

Life is too short to be boring. That’s where Laird Superfood’s Pineapple Mango Coconut Water comes in. A coconut water transfusion with pineapple and mango. Bright, flavorful, and fun with a divinely sweet tropical taste - say hello to nature’s super water with a twist. 

Fancy satisfying your sweet tooth while refueling after a workout? Say hello to Apres Vanilla Bean Replenishment. A rich and creamy vanilla bean blend made with plant protein, coconut water, electrolytes, and MCT fats. Smooth, light, and refreshing with 14-gram protein, 3g MCT’s & 5 electrolyte minerals. Power in a bottle. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Does Coconut Water Come From?

It is the clear water found in the center of the coconut. It is 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. Some enjoy drinking the water straight from the coconut, others enjoy the coconut water brands at PlantX that have been lovingly parceled up just for you.

What is the Difference Between Coconut Water and Coconut Milk?

Coconut water and coconut milk are both derived from coconut fruit. The former is a naturally occurring drink, while coconut milk requires a little bit of work.

Coconut water is a sweet liquid that you can drink straight from young coconuts. Coconut milk is made from coconut flesh that has been finely grated, boiled, and strained through a cloth.

Does Coconut Water Break my Fast?

While it is brimming with benefits and is low in calories, coconut water contains simple carbohydrates. Therefore, if you are fasting, save this deliciously refreshing beverage for your eating window.

Is Coconut Water A Good Alternative To Soda?

All coconut water brands are relatively healthy compared to soda and commercial soft drinks. Coconut water is a natural beverage and contains far less sugar than most soft or fizzy drinks.

What is the Healthiest Coconut Water?

The healthiest coconut water is coconut water that has been harvested straight from the nut. However, canned versions still contain many of the same excellent health benefits. 

Organic coconut water is made from organic coconuts which have been grown with as few added chemicals as possible. Many people feel organic coconut water is the healthiest coconut water.