5 surprising ways to use Coconut water to improve health

Skin Care

Wash your face with coconut water? Yep. A popular clarifying practice in India, coconut water is said to reduce acne, control oily skin and moisturize.

Already touted as a super-hydrant, coconut water is also antibacterial. In fact, beauty products like Revlon Colorstay Aqua Mineral Makeup use the water as an oil substitute. It’s important to note, however, that fresh, unsweetened water should be used when cleansing.

Hangover Cure

That party was great last night; the hangover…not so much. The culprits behind your splitting headache are dehydration and depleted levels of potassium and electrolytes. Enter coconut water, which is loaded with potassium (containing slightly more than a banana) and electrolytes. Want to take it a step further?

Drinking coconut water before you go to bed or using it as a mixer in your drinks can preemptively cut down on hangover symptoms. Party on.

Cooking

Try substituting coconut water for stock or plain water when cooking rice or soups. If you’re not ready to take the full plunge, a half-and-half ratio with water will still add great flavor to your food. It’s also a healthy option when making smoothies, as it has more fiber and is lower in calories than, say, orange juice.

Sports Hydration

Gatorade has long reigned as the king of rehydration drinks, especially among the sporty crowd. Though it still leads in sodium content, which is important for extended workouts, coconut water holds its own when it comes to rehydration and potassium content.

It’s naturally isotonic and has the same level of electrolytes as found in human blood. It’s particularly effective when used before a workout, as the potassium stems off muscle cramping. Fun fact: Coconut water was used in WWII as a plasma replacement when medical supplies were running low.

Weight Loss Keeping your body hydrated is key if you're trying to lose weight. Dehydration slows down your metabolism, meaning you’re burning calories at a far slower rate than you should. Granted, water is the ultimate hydrant, but coconut water isn’t far behind.

Its low in calories has zero cholesterol and has very little fat. Another bonus is its high fiber content—much higher than most juices and with a lot less sugar. Though it goes without saying that coconut water isn’t a weight-loss cure-all, it’s helpful in keeping you hydrated and feeling full.

Drink Coconut and stay healthy.