Since the rise of the coconut water industry in the global market, many rumors have spread throughout the world suggesting its awesome and sometimes surprising health benefits. Below are some of the most famous myths heard about coconut water and the truth that lies within them.
Coconut Water for Hangovers
Ever since the coconut water hyped that surprised the whole world, it has been debated extensively whether or not it can cure hangovers. Many have argued that the hydrating properties of coconut water helps in regaining the fluids flushed out of the body due to massive alcohol consumption. An idea was suggested that coconut water not only helps after a massive drinking of alcohol during a night out, it could also be a life saving hack even before drinking. The notion is to drink coconut water or cocktails infused with coconut water in order to hydrate the body before drinking alcohol. However, said statement is not supported by any intensive scientific study by experts. Even though it is not scientifically proven up until now, many doctors and health experts neither confirm nor deny the efficacy of coconut water for curing hangovers as many people are still deeming it to be nature’s drink yet another great benefit.
Coconut Water as Blood Plasma Alternative
A famous hearsay claimed that during World War II, doctors treating wounded soldiers in remote areas used coconut water as a substitute for intravenous fluid. Also, some studies conducted among few individuals concluded that there are no unwanted side effects experienced by patients intravenously medicated by coconut water. The idea was abruptly falsified by medical experts during the time of the coconut water fad. As explained, even though coconut water has properties that appear the same as a blood plasma, it is impossible to be a replacement for it. An actual fact was stated that the components of coconut water are actually contradictory to the components of blood plasma. What is identical is coconut water and the fluid inside red blood cells, opposing the claims since plasma is found outside these cells. However, for emergency situations, coconut water helped to be a substitute for IV fluid when shortage of supply occurred. This, however, will never equal coconut water to a solid substitute for blood plasma.
Coconut Water to Replace Sports Drinks
This, perhaps, is the most famous claim made by coconut water companies during their rise in the global market. The hydration properties of coconut water seemed to be very effective, to add the fact that many known personalities started promoting the product. This brought some experts to conduct actual studies to prove the mind-boggling claim. Results then showed that in terms of hydration, coconut water can compete against sports drinks. However, water is still the best option especially if the specific sport requires strenuous physical exercises. Even though some argued that one product tastes better than the other, the matter is still subjective depending on the consumer. Substantially, coconut water is still a very effective source of hydration and even if it can’t fully play the role of being the best sports drink in the market, it could still be a good option that benefits the body significantly.
Coconut Water to Cure UTI
Urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria and due to its antibacterial properties, coconut water has been dragged in the list as one of the natural home remedies curing urinary tract infection. Based on studies, coconut water’s high potassium content might affect the body differently if one is to consume a massive amount of coconut water to cure UTI. People with kidney problems and diabetes might experience negative health effects because of this. In terms of cure, antibiotics and/or cranberry juice is still the most advised remedy to treat UTI. However, when it comes to natural juices that may help prevent UTI or may contribute to a healthier urinary tract, coconut water is a sure option. Aside from its antibacterial properties, it is also diuretic and hydrates effectively which can help a lot in flushing out toxins in the body even before infection happens.
So, whether the said myths are true, half true or just too good to be true, it is still undeniable up until now that coconut water is indeed a functional, healthy drink worthy of the consumers’ money. With regards to some medical situations mentioned above as examples, most are anecdotal up until now. Claims of cure from coconut water should always be recommended by medical experts alone. Furthermore, effectiveness of a natural remedy will always be a case to case basis for each individual as no diet, medical condition and body dynamics will ever be identical.