In most tropical countries with long coastlines where coconut palms grow in abundance, coconut water has always been used as a refreshing drink and a health enhancer. The people of the Pacific Islands respect the coconut and use all of its parts for food and medicine. In recent years, coconut water has become a very trendy beverage. It is tasty, refreshing and also happens to be very good for you. Coconut water is the ultimate thirst quencher and offers a tasty alternative to water. This pure liquid is packed with nutrients including minerals that most people don't get enough of which yield an array of health benefits.

Here are 10 Health Benefits of Coconut Water you should know about:

1. Picture-Perfect Skin.
For those with acne or other blemishes on the surface of the skin, topical application of coconut water can go a great distance as it has the ability to clear up and subsequently tone the skin. It also moisturizes the skin from within if ingested orally and eliminates large amounts of oil. This explains why products such as facial creams, shampoos, conditioners and lotions that contain traces of coconut extract are more effective.

2. Helps Kidney Function
Most diets are high in sodium and low in potassium. Sodium puts a lot of stress on the kidneys because it promotes fluid retention. When sodium is high, kidneys have to work harder to eliminate excess water. On the other hand, potassium acts as a diuretic, helping the kidneys flush out water.
A single cup of coconut water can provide enough potassium to keep the kidneys in good health. Its diuretic effect is beneficial in preventing kidney stones. The arginine in coconut water increases blood circulation to all organs including kidneys.

3. It contains antioxidants.
Coconut water contains a lot of antioxidants, which help prevent the damage to our bodies caused by free radicals. Free radicals are produced by your own metabolism, so there's no other way to neutralize the damage, except making sure you consume enough antioxidants in your diet. And coconut water can help you with that.

4. Aids in Weight-loss Efforts.
The fat content in coconut water is extremely low, so generous quantities can be consumed without the fear of immediately packing on the pounds. It also suppresses the appetite and makes you feel full because of its rich nature.

5. The Ultimate Hangover Remedy.
Next time you overdo it and drink more than your belly can handle, consume coconut water to settle your stomach. It will also replace those essential electrolytes that exit the body if you experience bouts of frequent urination and vomiting.

6. Resolves Dyspepsia (Upset Stomach)
If you constantly encounter difficulty during the digestion process, coconut water may provide a source of relief. Because of its high concentration of fiber, it aids in the prevention of indigestion and reduces the occurrence of acid reflux. Coconut water can even handle mild infections. It contains lauric acid which is abundant in human breast milk. The body converts lauric acid into monolaurin, a compound with proven antimicrobial properties. If a stomach problem is the result of bacterial or protozoan infections or stomach flu, frequent drinks of coconut water can help. The tannins in the water also have antibacterial properties.

7. Boosts Hydration.
The ingredients in coconut water are way more effective at hydrating the human body than those of sports and energy drinks. During rigorous exercise or extended periods of physical activity, the human body loses mineral-rich fluids. However, coconut water serves as an excellent replacement medium with 294 mg of potassium and 5 mg of natural sugar per glass, unlike your favorite sports drink that only contains half of the potassium content and five times the amount of processed sugar. In addition, the sodium count is only 25 mg, which is relatively low compared to the 41 and 20 mg found in sports drinks and energy drinks respectively.

8. Rich in Nutrients.
Unlike any other beverage on the market, coconut water contains five essential electrolytes that are present in the human body. These include: calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium. Because of its unique composition, coconut water can be enjoyed by individuals with varying medical conditions.

9. Reduces Blood Pressure.
In many instances, a disproportionate level of electrolytes can result in high blood pressure. Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of each, it can be used as a balancing mechanism. In some instances, it is recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day to foster the balance of these electrolytes.

10. Great Post-Workout Drink
Strenuous activities that require constant muscular movement use up minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. It is important to replace them as early as possible to avoid muscle breakdown and electrolyte imbalance. This is the reason why people always reach for mineral-rich foods and health drinks right after workouts. We know that coconut water has these minerals to offer. But what makes it even more special is that its composition and salt concentration are very similar to that of tissue fluids. Therefore, coconut water is readily absorbed into the body.

How Much Should You Consume?
Coconut water can be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage or combined with another liquid product. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the amount that should be consumed on a daily basis, but experts from the Mayo Clinic strongly suggest that you consider maintaining an active lifestyle if consuming large amounts of coconut water since each eight ounce serving is accompanied by 45 to 60 calories.

Source: lifehack, naturallivingideas, talkchick