Many of my friends have been asking me lately for the scoop on coconut water. It's not suprising givin the sudden popularity it has acheived. Over the last couple of years multiple brands have poped up and it can now be found at most stores. I myself enjoyed an ice cold serving of coconut water after my hot yoga sesh last night. It really hit the spot!
Coconut water seems to be most popularly used as a sports drink. For an 8 oz serving, depending on the brand, it contains about 50-80 calories, with the calories coming from the naturally occuring sugars in the coconut. This is similar to the same sized serving of Gaterade, however the calories are coming from corn syrup here. Where it differs is in the electrolyte profile. Coconut water is very high in potassium, contianing 100% of your daily value, while being low in sodium (20-60 mg usually). Sports drinks are higher in sodium (100-200 mg) and moderate in potassium (40-60 mg) to replace what is lost in the sweat.
The bottom line: If you like the taste, coconut water can be a great option that is lower in calories than other drinks like soda. It can also be a good pick-me-up after short workouts or gentler one like yoga. But, if you are participating in a serious endurance event, coconut water will probably not provide you with enough sodium. Also, high doses of potassium have been known to cause GI issues such as diarrhea.
I love the Vita coco 100% pure coconut water. But it can be an acquired taste to some. There are also options now with additional flavors and with or without pulp. When it is hot outside and coconut water is ice cold it can be truely refreshing!
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