Lower Your Blood Pressure with Coconut Water

Coconut water is not only delicious, but it could be a viable natural solution to lowering your blood pressure. One study has shown the benefits of this natural heart helper. Amazingly, coconut water was found to lower the blood pressure of 71% of study participants.

Coconut water is a clear, light, liquid that is quite refreshing. Extracted from young, green coconuts that have not reached maturity, coconut water is actually comprised of about 95% water content. In order to locate the proper coconut, look for coconuts that are white, smooth, and pointed on one end. These are not the ‘traditional’ coconuts you may be used to seeing in the produce section which are brown and covered in small hairs.

These young coconuts will be in the refrigerated section, as they are perishable.

Coconut Water is Full of Vital Nutrients, Better than Sports Drinks

Hawaiians actually call coconut water “noelani,” which means “dew from the heavens.” The drink is even held in high regard in  many tropical cultures. Due to the health-promoting contents of the beverage and the immense hydrating qualities it harnesses, it is no surprise that coconut water is a far better alternative to additive-laden sports drinks.

In fact, one 2007 study found sodium-enriched coconut water to be as effective as commercial sports drinks in overall hydration with far less stomach pains. Of course coconut water also surpasses sports drinks due to an impressive nutritional profile, including:

• Essential B vitamins, minerals, and trace elements (such as zinc, selenium, iodine, sulfur, and manganese).

• The 5 essential electrolytes (potassium, sodium, phosphorous, magnesium, calcium).

• Cytokinins, which are plant hormones that can fight against cancer and aging.

• Amino acids, organic acids, enzymes, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

Perhaps the most compelling reason to drink coconut water is the fact that it reduced blood pressure in 71% of those who drank it. Hypertension can lead to stroke, myocardial infraction, heart failure, and much more. Beyond that, it is a leading cause of chronic kidney failure.

Instead of taking pharmaceutical drugs riddled with side effects, coconut water presents itself as a powerful hypertension solution without the harsh side effects.