Many parents have heard about the many uses of virgin coconut oil, particularly for cooking and adding flavor to their children’s meals. This is not the only product that you can get from coconuts. Coconuts also give you coconut water, a refreshing and rehydrating natural drink that you will surely enjoy.

Not many people are familiar with coconut water and its amazing properties. The truth is that this is one of the healthiest beverages you can consume. Coconut water is safe for people of all ages, making it a versatile drink. Here’s one great idea: instead of the usual sodas and processed fruit juices you give to your children, give them a delicious glass of chilled coconut water. What is Coconut Water? Coconut water is the clear and light liquid that is extracted from young coconuts. It is the liquid part of the kernel (endosperm) of the coconut fruit. The endosperm is semisolid and jelly-like when the coconut is young. As the fruit matures, the endosperm becomes more fibrous and solid, transforming into firm coconut meat – the part added to recipes and used to make virgin coconut oil. If you want to enjoy coconut water and not coconut meat, choose young green coconuts. Coconut water is very similar in appearance to water – it is actually 95 percent water – although it appears a bit cloudy. Coconut water is a popular drink in many tropical cultures. In Hawaii, it is called “noelani,” which means “dew from the heavens.” Coconuts usually grow in rich, volcanic soils and near mineral-rich seawater, so the nutritional profile of this natural beverage is truly amazing.

Coconut Water Is a Nutritious Drink for Your Child

Next to pure, clear water derived from a natural spring, coconut water is the best beverage you can give to your child. Not only does it have a pleasant, slightly sweet taste, but it also contains an abundance of minerals not found in other juices or energy drinks. Natural coconut water is:

• Abundant in organic acids, amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients.
• Rich in natural minerals, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and trace elements like zinc, iodine, selenium, and manganese. These are very useful for the enzymatic reactions needed by your cells in order to properly function.
• A wonderful source of natural salts like magnesium and potassium, as well as electrolytes.
• Rich in cytokinins, plant hormones that have anti-cancer, anti-aging, and anti-thrombolytic effects in humans.
• Low-calorie and low-sugar. It actually contains only one-fifth of the sugar found in other fruit juices. It also contains a good amount of fiber to moderate sugar absorption.

Coconut water is also known for its alkalizing effect on the human body. If you and your child frequently consume acidifying foods, then drinking coconut water will help prevent any cumulative effects of these unhealthy foods. For more information about coconut water’s complete nutritional profile, visit the Coconut Research Center site. What’s the Best Way to Enjoy Coconut Water? Another wonderful reason to use coconut water: it is very versatile! You can drink it on its own, mix it with a wide variety of drinks, or even add it to your favorite whey protein shake. Be creative when using this delicious drink. One of the most popular ways to enjoy coconut water is to simply slice off the top of the young green coconut, put a straw through the thin and fleshy white meat, and then drink the juice straight from the shell – a refreshing treat! After drinking the water, get a spoon and scoop out the delicious meat inside. Educate your children on the wonders of the coconut water and the coconut fruit itself. This simple but healthy drink may be the key to helping them stay away from unhealthy sodas and sugar-loaded fruit juices that do nothing for their health. About the Author: Elaine Rosales writes for Mercola.com. Her favorite topics include pregnancy, children’s health, and proper nutrition. She is currently researching about multivitamin benefits, and how it can help improve one’s health.