8 Health Benefits Of Coconut Water You Didn't Know Yet

Refreshing, healthy, and nutritious! That's coconut water - the ultimate thirst quencher... It is now renowned for its full-packed health benefits. Its healing effect to treat and cleanse urinary tract infections has been known worldwide. That is why we decided to compile the best 8 health benefits of this amazing Nature's offer:

1. It's low in calories.

What set aside coconut water from plain water, it is not entirely calorie-free, but at 42 calories per serving (240g) it's still low in calorie. Thus, it makes a great alternative for any one of your regular, sugar-sweetened drinks, perfect if you're in a weight loss program diet.

2. It contains cytokinins.

Although not too famous, cytokinins, is one of the highly beneficial compounds that can be found in coconut juice. Various researches have revealed that cytokinins can slow down the formation of cancer cell. In addition, coconut water is loved by many as it can also slow down the aging process.

3. It can quench thirst and aid dehydration.

To keep your body healthy and properly hydrated, consuming enough water is one vital requirement. Coconut is one of the best choices since it contains about 95%. It can hydrate your body the way plain water can offer.

4. It is rich in potassium.

Potassium is an essential mineral in your body. It's needed by the brain and nervous system to function properly. It also aids in providing the needed amount of potassium. Do you know that 1 serving of coconut water will cover about 13% of your daily potassium needs? Yes, that's right!

Photo: Bodyandsoul.com.au

5. It contains magnesium.

Although magnesium is also one of the important components of our diet, only 32% of people had can consume it well. Low level of magnesium leads to low energy levels and can end up to serious health conditions such as asthma, osteoporosis, and diabetes. One serving of coconut water takes care of about 14% of your daily magnesium requirement.

6. It contains copper.

Another vital mineral for the body is copper. If copper is absent in your health, your organs and your metabolism simply can't work well and that would affect your overall health. A serving of coconut water will provide about 11% of the daily copper requirements.

Photo: Seafoodnet.info

7. It contains antioxidants.

It is full of antioxidants, which aid in preventing the damage to the body due to free radicals. Since today it's very difficult to avoid free radicals, it's very important that we have enough antioxidants. Good thing, coconut water can help you with that!

8. It can remedy hangover.

Sometimes, we can't avoid drinking too much and the next day it's very uncomfortable. Consume coconut water to ease your stomach due to hangover. It would surely replenish the body by replacing the essential electrolytes taken from the body caused by frequent urination and vomiting.

Do you know other health benefits of coconut? Feel free to share.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Vegan Pancakes And Berry Smoothie | VIDEO

If you are looking for a light, tasty, summery meal that is easy to prepare and make, check out my summer Vegan Pancakes & Berry Smoothie recipe. It takes literally few minutes to prepare and you can have it at home or bring it with you as a delicious lunch to work or pack as a picnic on a day out.

Vegan Pancakes

To make 2-3 large pancakes you will need the following ingredients:

1 ripe banana
70 g organic porridge oats
2-3 tbsp mixed flaxseeds
Almond milk

Add all ingredients into a mixer and blitz into a smooth creamy mixture and make sure it is not too runny or the pancakes won't set and you will end up throwing the mixture out. less milk works the best and then add it slightly if the mixture is too thick.

Pour the mixture on the preheated frying pan which has been greased with coconut butter, coconut oil or nut oils if you are not allergic to them. Cook from both sides until golden brown.

Serve with a dollop of organic almond butter. You can add fresh berries or other fresh fruit, yogurt, honey or tahini (a lighter spread if you find almond butter is too rich for your taste) before serving.

Berry Smoothie

Smoothies are a really great and delicious way how to hydrate your body during summer. As some people find it difficult to drink water, smoothies can be a perfect alternative. I would always recommend coconut water as it is so much better and will give your body more hydration which is so vital to the health. I always get my coconut water in Aldi supermarkets as they offer the best price.

To make a large glass of berry smoothie for 1 person you will need the following ingredients:

1/2 ripe banana
Handful of fresh or frozen mixed berries
Coconut water

Put all the ingredients into a mixer or Nutri Magic Bullet and blend into a smooth liquid mixture, this is brilliant way how to blend solids, fruits, nuts and seeds. Add more coconut water if it is too thick. Serve chilled.

Summer is the perfect time to try lots of great, delicious and easy foods that are made from organic fruits and berries that you can find in your local farmer's markets, health stores or supermarkets. Be creative, try mixing together different ingredients and enjoy healthy fresh meals!