Water delight

To the thirsty traveller,there is nothing more refreshing and hygienic than tender coconut water.<

To the thirsty traveller,there is nothing more refreshing and hygienic than tender coconut water.
Besides being delicious and refreshing,there are several other reasons why this humble looking liquid from the endosperm cavity of a coconut has been valued historically in tropical countries.

Coconut water is rich in minerals especially potassium,calcium and magnesium,making it an excellent remedy for replacing electrolytes and rejuvenating the body on a hot day. Its quick absorption is also the reason it is used to replace fluids and salts during diarrhoea and intestinal infections,both in infants and adults. In cases of severe diarrhoea,it may not be a substitute for oral

rehydration solution,but certainly is a useful adjunct.

Being a natural isotonic beverage,i.e. it has a similar level of electrolytic balance as we have in our body; it is often referred to as the fluid of life. In fact,during World War II when IV (intravenous) solution was scarce,water from young coconuts is believed to had been used to give emergency plasma transfusions instead of saline to wounded soldiers.
The saline and albumin in coconut water makes it a good drink for urinary infections and kidney stones. Its cooling properties also prevent summer boils and rashes caused by chicken pox and measles.

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Coconut water is also believed to contain organic compounds possessing growth-promoting properties.
Coconut water is one of the best dietary sources of cytokinins,molecules that protect the cells as they undergo cell division. Cytokinins help cellular DNA replicate perfectly during cell division; without these molecules,mistakes occasionally occur. Thus,cytokinins play a key role in fighting cancer and ensuring longevity.

Interestingly,coconut water has all the functional characteristics required of a sports drink. Correction of dehydration,improvement of neuromuscular control along with its cooling properties has been found to improve athletic performance. In the year 2000,it was recognized by UNs Food and Agricultural Organisation as a natural drink for joggers and athletes. Clearly,with so many impressive benefits,the growing popularity of coconut water is no surprise.