6 Benefits of Coconut Water for Health

Coconut water is one of the commonly encountered beverages. It is the liquid found inside a coconut in its early developmental stage when the coconut is still young and not fully mature. Unriped coconut water has a distinct taste compared to riped coconut water. It is sweeter, fresher, and has a clear color. Coconut water is a popular beverage in various regions, both tropical and subtropical. In Indonesia, specifically, coconut water is easily found in abundance.

Apart from its sweet and refreshing taste that quenches thirst, coconut water is also rich in nutrients and minerals beneficial for health. It is abundant in electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, sodium, Vitamin C, and Lauric Acid, similar to the composition of breast milk needed during pregnancy. Coconut water can serve as a substitute for body fluids and also acts as an antibacterial agent, capable of eliminating bacteria causing infections in the body.

The Benefits of Young Coconut Water for Health

• Due to the abundant electrolytes present in young coconut water, it can meet the body's fluid needs. These electrolytes function to support cell activities and maintain fluid balance in the body. Young coconut water is beneficial for individuals experiencing vomiting or at risk of dehydration. It also serves as a healthy alternative to isotonic drinks that contain added sugars and flavorings.
• Coconut water can help lower blood pressure due to its potassium content, which reduces tension in the muscles lining the blood vessels, thereby maintaining stable blood pressure.
• Coconut water functioning as an antioxidant can reduce cholesterol symptoms. It aids in preventing heart diseases associated with high blood pressure and ensures the health and function of heart cells.
• Coconut water contributes to kidney health by assisting in the elimination of kidney stone triggers through urine.
• Coconut water with its antibacterial properties is beneficial for maintaining skin health and preventing acne when applied to the skin.
• Coconut water also aids in diet programs or weight loss. Young coconut water is low in calories, making it safe to consume, keeping you fuller for longer and suppressing appetite.
• Coconut water contains antioxidants that play a role in preventing cancer by protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Inspiration for Various Dishes Made from Coconut Water

If young farmers are used to drinking young coconut water directly with the addition of ice or sugar, let's try some of the following dishes that young farmers can also enjoy without diminishing the benefits of coconut water itself.

• Thai Mango Pineapple Coconut Juice is a beverage from Thailand with a distinctive aroma of spices. This drink combines coconut water with mango juice, pineapple juice, and a hint of ginger and galangal essence. The beverage has a refreshing, tangy, and sweet taste.
• Soursop Coconut Ice is a relatively easy-to-make drink. Young farmers only need young coconut water with its flesh, soursop juice, nata de coco, lychee slices, ice, and condensed milk. Simply mix all the ingredients in a container.
• Tropical Coconut Water Smoothie is a smoothie made from frozen pineapples, bananas, and mangoes blended with coconut water, greek yogurt, honey, and a little squeeze of lemon juice until smooth.
• Strawberry Coconut Lime Spa Water, similar to making infused water, involves mixing fruits such as strawberries, mint leaves, and lime into coconut water. Store it in a cooler and serve it chilled.
• Orange Coconut Ice is a combination of orange juice with coconut water and its flesh. Young farmers can also add sugar or honey to enhance the sweetness. (Nisa)