Have you heard the news? Many consider coconut water to be the new health sports drink. Athletes are ditching the artificial and sugar-loaded sports drinks for pure coconut water. So, what’s the craze all about? It turns out that coconut water’s benefits are equivalent to that of Gatorade—and it's all natural. It has proven to help rehydrate, restore electrolytes, and give the body exactly what it needs after a good workout.
Coconut water can be used before and during workouts to help keep up hydration and sustain energy levels. If you are looking to include a more natural sports drink to your workout routine, keep reading to find out why coconut water is the best option for you.
Electrolyte Powerhouse
Coconut water is the healthiest sports drink because it provides you with an excellent source of electrolytes. We need electrolytes to replace the fluid we lose through sweat during intense exercise.
Coconut water includes five essential electrolytes our bodies need: sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. In fact, one cup of coconut water contains more potassium than one banana does. This particular electrolyte is especially important for promoting rehydration and preventing those post-workout muscle cramps. Coconut water is a much better and healthier source of electrolytes, especially potassium, than traditional sports drinks.
Pure Ingredients
Pure unsweetened coconut water is free from any of the unnecessary ingredients you would find in your traditional sports drinks. Most post-workout drinks are loaded with sugar, artificial ingredients, and added calories. Coconut water contains natural sugar as opposed to high fructose corn syrup and is lower in calories and carbohydrates, providing you with added health benefits. If you are looking for a clean and natural way to rehydrate after a workout, coconut water is a much healthier option and better alternative.
Help Ease Muscle Tension
As mentioned above, coconut water is an incredibly rich source of potassium which is great for preventing muscle cramps. However, it is also high in calcium and magnesium which can also help reduce muscle tension. Both calcium and magnesium work together to help keep muscles relaxed. Next time your muscles are sore from an intense workout, make sure to rehydrate with some pure coconut water.
Post-Workout Recovery Smoothie
Really want to boost your post-workout hydration? Try this coconut water smoothie.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of unsweetened coconut water
- 1 frozen banana
- ½ cup of frozen mango
- 1 handful of fresh spinach or kale
- 1 Tbsp. chia seeds
- 1 Tbsp. raw honey
Directions:
- Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
- Enjoy!
Conclusion
Coconut water is one of the healthiest sports drinks because it is a fantastic source of electrolytes and is free from artificial ingredients, high fructose syrup, and artificial colors. To be sure that you are buying the best quality coconut water, opt for one that is in the refrigerator section and is cold pressured at your local health food store. Cold pressured ensures that you will get more vitamins and minerals than you would from coconut water that has been processed using heat. Do your body a favor and drink coconut water before, during, and after a great workout.
