Who doesn’t want to be that little bit healthier? Especially if improving your health involves minimal effort. With this in mind we’ve made it our mission to bring you news each week of a product, a foodstuff, an exercise technique or a pill that promises magical health-giving properties.
This week’s magic ingredient: Coconut water.
Not to be confused with: Cocoa, Cocaine, Copacabana by Barry Manilow.
Coconut water? Isn’t that just another celebrity craze? Well, even though celebrities are quite fond of coconut water, their fad is justified. It is actually quite good for you.
How is it good for you? Coconut water is a natural isotonic beverage full of vitamins and nutrients. It contains potassium, calcium and magnesium that boost your immune system. It is also a great way of preventing dehydration.
Where does it come from? Well, coconuts obviously. As a coconut ripens, the water inside gets solid and turns white. If you’re looking for natural water your best bet is to get a green, unripe coconut.
How does it taste? It all depends. Coconut water is now packaged and available in most health stores. Although some companies say their water is 100 percent natural, they seem to taste a lot different to water you get from the actual coconut. It generally has a mildly sweet taste, however some coconuts are known to contain sour water. Not very tasty.
I don’t feel like drinking a glass of coconut water. Is there anything I can add it to? Coconut water goes great in smoothies. Some natural yogurt, passion fruit, banana and two small measures of coconut water makes for one tasty drink. Very healthy too.
Any negative side effects from it? If you’ve watched Cast Away with Tom Hanks, you’ll know what happens when you overindulge on the water. Coconut water is a natural laxative, so be careful not to drink too much.
Ok, I won’t go drinking pints of it just yet so! Where is the best place to get coconut water? Getting green, unripe coconuts can be quite difficult in Ireland. You will find small amounts of water in coconuts you buy at the supermarket, but you’d probably be better off buying cartons of coconut water in a health store.
Frank McCann
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