Coconut water is used for many ailments. Some of these uses have a scientific rationale, others are traditional or cultural beliefs. One thing is for sure – coconut water protects the circulatory system, perfectly hydrates and strengthens the body. Phytohormones are an important component of coconut water, but in this water we can also find sugars, sugar alcohols, lipids, amino acids, B vitamins, nitrogen compounds, organic acids and enzymes that perform various functions in the human body depending on different chemical properties [1 ].
For athletes
Coconut water is rich in potassium, sodium, chlorides and carbohydrates and is therefore mentioned as an excellent rehydration agent [1]. Moreover, in clinical treatment, this water can be used as an oral rehydration agent in the event of loss of fluid from the gastrointestinal tract in patients suffering from diarrhea [2,3]. Due to its antioxidant effect, this fluid may help to neutralize reactive oxygen species resulting from prolonged exercise [4].
For a healthy heart
Coconut water may also protect us from a heart attack [5]. Interestingly, studies have shown that regular consumption of coconut or mauba water (liquids derived from the bark of the mauba tree, arborescens colubrina), and especially their mixture, is very effective in regulating blood pressure [6].
Anti-cancer and anti-thrombotic effect
Coconut water contains cytokines belonging to phytohormones. Some of them, namely kinetin and trans – zeatin, protect us against neoplasms and have anticoagulant properties [7,8]. It is worth knowing that oxidative DNA damage plays an important role in the development of cancer, and it is nutritional antioxidants that can provide effective protection against oxidative damage. Kinetin may also prevent oxidative damage to unsaturated fatty acids located within cell membranes [9].
For diseases of the nervous system
The aforementioned trans-zeatin may be a potential drug in the fight against nervous diseases. Scientists have found that it has an acetylcholinesterase (AchE) inhibitory effect and can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease or neuronal disorders such as dementia [10, 11].
As you can see, coconut water is not only a “invention” on the market. Its composition is anti-cancer, supports the heart, allows for excellent hydration and even soothes the nervous system.
Photo 1 is from: John Revo Puno via Foter.com / CC BY
Photo 2 is from: John Revo Puno via Foter.com / CC BY
Photo 3 is from: avlxyz via Foter.com / CC BY-SA
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