Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for yourself while on your detox program. This is because the balance of electrolytes in your body can be changed easily by sweating in a hot climate. Electrolytes are salts that become charged molecules, called ions, when they are dissolved in a liquid. Electrolytes maintain the electric voltage throughout your cells so that signals can pass easily. Several bodily functions are dependent on this electrical communication that electrolytes help carry. They include regulating nerve and muscle function, acidity levels and fluid levels. Their electrical charges and ability to conduct electricity helps the body to send electrical signals from one cell to another.
Naturally refreshing, coconut water has a sweet, nutty, smooth taste. It contains easily digested carbohydrate in the form of sugar and electrolytes. Not to be confused with high-fat coconut milk or oil, coconut water is the clear liquid in the fruit’s center that is tapped from young, green coconuts.
Coconut water has fewer calories, less sodium, and more potassium than a sports drink. Ounce per ounce, most unflavored coconut water contains 5.45 calories, 1.3 grams sugar, 61 milligrams (mg) of potassium, and 5.45 mg of sodium compared to Gatorade, which has 6.25 calories, 1.75 grams of sugar, 3.75 mg of potassium, and 13.75 mg of sodium.
Coconut water may be better at replacing lost fluids than a sports drink or water. A study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise shows that coconut water replenishes body fluids as well as a sports drink and better than water but the athletes preferred the taste of the sports drinks. It is a drink that is commonly used throughout Thailand as a means to replenish one’s body after a hard day’s work, exercise, and or just by being in hot weather.
