Pears are sweet juicy fruit that are similar to apples in some ways. While they share the same crunchiness with apples, the skin of pears is very thin as compared to that of apples. The skin colour varies from yellow to green to red sometimes. The flesh of the pear is light in colour with sweet and juicy properties. When it comes to nutritional value of pears, they have very high concentration of water soluble fibres. Pears are also great source of vitamins like Vitamin B1 and B2, Vitamin A, C and E along with niacin and folate. Due to rich nutritional value there are several health benefits of pears like:
Pears help to control the blood pressure: glutathione present in pears have anti-carcinogenic and anti-oxidant properties. Glutathione help in controlling the high blood pressure as well as in preventing the stroke. Since pears have high concentration of dietary fibres help in lowering down the level of cholesterol as it binds to the bile salts and carry the cholesterol out from the body.
Prevention of cancer: richness of pears in copper and Vitamin C help them infighting against the cancer by acting as strong anti-oxidants. These anti-oxidants help in preventing the cells from the damage caused by the free radicals. The fibres present in pears help in removing the chemicals in colon by binding to then that can lead to cancer.
Level of sugar in blood: health benefits of pears also include maintaining the level of sugar in the blood. The glycemic index of pear is very low, thus people suffering from diabetes can easily munch on this sweet fruit without worrying about the spike in their sugar levels.
Prevention of osteoporosis: the high level of boron in pears leads to this health benefit of pears. To maintain the bone health with advancing age, it is necessary to maintain the pH levels in the body and to consume adequate quantity of calcium on daily basis. Boron helps in retaining the calcium of the body thus promoting the bone health.
Pears Increases the level of energy: the high level of glucose in pears make them instant source of energy. If you are feeling low on energy factor, try grabbing a pear for the instant relief.
Pears Improves digestion: the dietary fibre in pears help in process of digestion. The fibres help in the movement of food through the digestive tract. Also the insoluble fibres in the pear prevent the formation of polyps in the colon.
Pears in pregnancy: pears are rich source of folic acid. Folic acid is necessary for the pregnant women as it helps in preventing the birth defects. Thus pears should be regularly eaten during pregnancy.
Skin damage: the dietary fibres present in pears help in preventing the damage caused by the skin. Pears, by slowing down the discharge of sugar in the blood, it reduces the damage of the skin collagen. Pears also help in keeping the sin free from wrinkles. Vitamin C, copper and Vitamin K present in pears act strong anti-oxidants and combats the damage caused by the free radicals in the body.
Aloe vera juice can be used to treat a myriad of conditions, including improving digestion, helping to detox the body, and treating skin conditions. It can be an important all-natural supplement to a healthy lifestyle when used correctly.
Aloe vera juice comes in many different varieties, and each manufacturer makes it a little different. Don’t confuse aloe drinks with aloe vera juice. Look for organic brands of aloe vera juice that are in concentrated form. Then follow the instructions for how to properly dilute it with water or other juice.
For some of these benefits you’ll want to take aloe vera juice daily, and for others you can simply drink it when you feel the need.
1. A Healthier Heart
Perhaps the best benefit of aloe vera juice is that it can promote the healthy function of the heart in several key ways.
Aloe vera helps to lower cholesterol levels thanks to the beta-Sitosterol it contains. The good news is that you have several options for how to take your aloe vera. You can go with the juice, which is perhaps the easiest way, or you can opt for powders or gels, whatever you feel most comfortable with. See below for more on how to use it.
The detoxifying properties of aloe vera help to cleanse the blood of impurities, which in turn will encourage the healthy growth of new blood cells, and will even act to increase the size of your blood vessels. All of this contributes to a healthier heart, both short term and long term.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice daily to promote heart health. Always make sure to follow the directions on the specific bottle of aloe vera juice to see how to dilute it.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help with a host of conditions and diseases, relieving symptoms brought on by excessive inflammation in the body.
Many symptoms are brought on or worsened by inflammation, including arthritis and even cancer. If you’ve been experiencing inflammation or want to keep your inflammation in check, aloe vera juice can help. It may not be able to stop your inflammation completely, but it can at least slow it down, and if you use aloe vera in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory diet you can take great strides in helping yourself curb your inflammation naturally.
It’s also been noted that aloe vera juice can help bring the body into an alkaline state, further helping to soothe symptoms caused by an overly acidic state.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice when symptoms flare up, or as a daily maintenance or prevention regimen.
3. Aids In Digestion
Aloe vera juice is often touted for its ability to help with digestive issues, including irregularity, both diarrhea and constipation, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and heartburn.
The reason it works is because of its cleansing effect on the digestive tract. It not only works on the colon and bowels, but the entire length of the digestive tract, helping to keep it functioning properly.
We’ve already seen how aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, and that includes inflammation in your digestive system. It’s also purifying it with its antiseptic properties, and helping to establish good bacteria in the gut. It’s truly a multi-faceted way to help your digestion, and can help relieve current discomfort while paving the way for less digestive disorders in the future.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice before a meal, or after you’re already experiencing stomach discomfort. You can use it as part of a colon cleanse, or daily as a way to keep your digestive system running smoothly.
4. Has Detoxifying Properties
You’ll often see aloe vera juice used as part of a body detox program because of its ability to help remove toxic substances in the body.
It’s no surprise that aloe vera juice can detoxify the body, as it helps so many different parts of the body do their job better. You’ve already got detoxifying organs in place, such as the liver and kidneys, and aloe vera juice will support them in their roles. Once you free these important organs of built-up waste they function better and can do a better job of keeping you free of toxins going forward.
Keep in mind that you might not get the full benefit by relying on aloe vera juice alone. Combine it with an overall strategy of a full body detox at least annually for best results.
How to use it: Add aloe vera juice to your detox program either in the detox juice or detox smoothie, or by itself mixed with water.
5. Strengthens the Immune System
Aloe vera juice can help strengthen your immune system due to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, as well as helping it on a molecular level.
Aloe vera juice contains polysaccharides, important components of a healthy immune system, so you are not only helping it by keeping things cleaner on the inside, you are providing it with nutrients it needs so that you’ll feel your best in the short term, and help ward off diseases and illnesses over time.
If your immune system is not overly taxed by having an excessive amount of bacteria, viruses, and other outside invaders, it becomes stronger and more able to perform its duties. Aloe vera can help take some of the burden off of your immune system, allowing it to strengthen up and be more effective at what it does.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice each day to keep your immune system strong and well nourished.
6. Helps the Skin
It’s long been known that aloe vera gel can be used to treat wounds and soothe burns, but aloe vera juice can also be used externally to treat a myriad of problems of the skin.
We’ve already seen how aloe vera juice taken internally has an anti-inflammatory effect, and that same property is what makes it great at treating skin problems on the surface. Aloe vera juice can help reduce the redness associated with acne, and can help soothe the redness and itchiness of an insect bite.
It’s also been noted for its anti-aging effects and acts as a moisturizer, which is why it’s a popular additive in skin care products of all types. Rather than trust these products, it’s best to go right to the source and make your own products using all-natural aloe vera juice.
How to use it: Use aloe vera juice topically to help all sorts of skin irritations and conditions. It’s easy enough to make your own masks and creams with aloe vera juice and apply them directly to problem areas.
7. Reduces Stress
Drinking aloe vera juice can help your body cope with the changes that occur in the world around you, actually helping you to adapt to these changes rather than fight against them. This is why it’s considered an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body adapt to what’s going on in its environment. Other examples of adaptogens include ginseng and goji berries.
The sort of stress that aloe vera juice can help with is both emotional and physical, allowing you to focus better in hectic times, as well as handle physical stresses to the body without escalating the problem.
It can also help the body with environmental stresses, which is important because we have little control over this, so it’s important to shore up your defenses and equip the body with what it needs to effectively thrive in constantly changing environment.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice during times of stress to help keep your composure. You can also drink it daily for regular feelings of calm and wellbeing.
8. Improved Blood Circulation
Aloe vera juice can help improve the circulation of blood throughout the body, which not only improves the condition of your heart, but can relieve other symptoms as well like cold fingers and toes, feeling fatigued, or having a mental fog.
The reason aloe vera juice is effective at improving your circulation is because it helps to increase the size of the capillaries, allowing blood to flow more freely and easily.
Aloe vera juice is no cure-all when it comes to circulatory problems. Be sure to check with your doctor if you’ve been experiencing symptoms of poor circulation. Then devise an overall approach to improving your circulation with a combination of dietary changes and more activity.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice daily to keep a healthy blood circulation, and be sure to get exercise each day to keep your circulatory system pumping.
9. Balances Blood Sugar
It may be too early to know for sure, but early signs point to aloe vera juice helping with blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for those that are concerned about developing diabetes, or those that already have it.
Early studies are promising when it comes to the antidiabetic properties of aloe vera juice, enough to make it worthwhile to try it as a potential all-natural way to help manage diabetes.
While aloe vera juice can be used to prevent diabetes, it is not a magic bullet by any means. Consult with your doctor if you are trying to avoid diabetes. They will be able to help you come up with a more comprehensive strategy.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice to keep blood glucose levels in check, before a meal or after a meal.
10. Acts as an Antiseptic
Aloe vera juice has antiseptic qualities to it that make it a great all-natural cleanser for many parts of the body. It works as soon as you drink it, helping to cleanse your digestive system. It also introduces substances into the bloodstream, which helps purify the blood.
Aloe vera will go to work inside the body, helping to kill off harmful bacteria while leaving alone friendly bacteria that help with digestion. It can also handle viruses that would otherwise make us sick. This is why it’s beneficial to the immune system, and why it is often brought up as a powerful all-natural way to stay healthy.
You can also use it externally to help with skin problems, and you’ll often see aloe vera gel sold as a wound healer. You can use aloe vera juice as well, and if you’re using it externally you may not need to dilute it if it is in concentrated form.
How to use it: Apply aloe vera externally, or drink it to help cleanse the body of harmful internal bacteria and viruses.
Aloe vera juice can be used to treat a myriad of conditions, including improving digestion, helping to detox the body, and treating skin conditions. It can be an important all-natural supplement to a healthy lifestyle when used correctly.
Aloe vera juice comes in many different varieties, and each manufacturer makes it a little different. Don’t confuse aloe drinks with aloe vera juice. Look for organic brands of aloe vera juice that are in concentrated form. Then follow the instructions for how to properly dilute it with water or other juice.
For some of these benefits you’ll want to take aloe vera juice daily, and for others you can simply drink it when you feel the need.
1. A Healthier Heart
Perhaps the best benefit of aloe vera juice is that it can promote the healthy function of the heart in several key ways.
Aloe vera helps to lower cholesterol levels thanks to the beta-Sitosterol it contains. The good news is that you have several options for how to take your aloe vera. You can go with the juice, which is perhaps the easiest way, or you can opt for powders or gels, whatever you feel most comfortable with. See below for more on how to use it.
The detoxifying properties of aloe vera help to cleanse the blood of impurities, which in turn will encourage the healthy growth of new blood cells, and will even act to increase the size of your blood vessels. All of this contributes to a healthier heart, both short term and long term.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice daily to promote heart health. Always make sure to follow the directions on the specific bottle of aloe vera juice to see how to dilute it.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it can help with a host of conditions and diseases, relieving symptoms brought on by excessive inflammation in the body.
Many symptoms are brought on or worsened by inflammation, including arthritis and even cancer. If you’ve been experiencing inflammation or want to keep your inflammation in check, aloe vera juice can help. It may not be able to stop your inflammation completely, but it can at least slow it down, and if you use aloe vera in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory diet you can take great strides in helping yourself curb your inflammation naturally.
It’s also been noted that aloe vera juice can help bring the body into an alkaline state, further helping to soothe symptoms caused by an overly acidic state.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice when symptoms flare up, or as a daily maintenance or prevention regimen.
3. Aids In Digestion
Aloe vera juice is often touted for its ability to help with digestive issues, including irregularity, both diarrhea and constipation, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and heartburn.
The reason it works is because of its cleansing effect on the digestive tract. It not only works on the colon and bowels, but the entire length of the digestive tract, helping to keep it functioning properly.
We’ve already seen how aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, and that includes inflammation in your digestive system. It’s also purifying it with its antiseptic properties, and helping to establish good bacteria in the gut. It’s truly a multi-faceted way to help your digestion, and can help relieve current discomfort while paving the way for less digestive disorders in the future.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice before a meal, or after you’re already experiencing stomach discomfort. You can use it as part of a colon cleanse, or daily as a way to keep your digestive system running smoothly.
4. Has Detoxifying Properties
You’ll often see aloe vera juice used as part of a body detox program because of its ability to help remove toxic substances in the body.
It’s no surprise that aloe vera juice can detoxify the body, as it helps so many different parts of the body do their job better. You’ve already got detoxifying organs in place, such as the liver and kidneys, and aloe vera juice will support them in their roles. Once you free these important organs of built-up waste they function better and can do a better job of keeping you free of toxins going forward.
Keep in mind that you might not get the full benefit by relying on aloe vera juice alone. Combine it with an overall strategy of a full body detox at least annually for best results.
How to use it: Add aloe vera juice to your detox program either in the detox juice or detox smoothie, or by itself mixed with water.
5. Strengthens the Immune System
Aloe vera juice can help strengthen your immune system due to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, as well as helping it on a molecular level.
Aloe vera juice contains polysaccharides, important components of a healthy immune system, so you are not only helping it by keeping things cleaner on the inside, you are providing it with nutrients it needs so that you’ll feel your best in the short term, and help ward off diseases and illnesses over time.
If your immune system is not overly taxed by having an excessive amount of bacteria, viruses, and other outside invaders, it becomes stronger and more able to perform its duties. Aloe vera can help take some of the burden off of your immune system, allowing it to strengthen up and be more effective at what it does.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice each day to keep your immune system strong and well nourished.
6. Helps the Skin
It’s long been known that aloe vera gel can be used to treat wounds and soothe burns, but aloe vera juice can also be used externally to treat a myriad of problems of the skin.
We’ve already seen how aloe vera juice taken internally has an anti-inflammatory effect, and that same property is what makes it great at treating skin problems on the surface. Aloe vera juice can help reduce the redness associated with acne, and can help soothe the redness and itchiness of an insect bite.
It’s also been noted for its anti-aging effects and acts as a moisturizer, which is why it’s a popular additive in skin care products of all types. Rather than trust these products, it’s best to go right to the source and make your own products using all-natural aloe vera juice.
How to use it: Use aloe vera juice topically to help all sorts of skin irritations and conditions. It’s easy enough to make your own masks and creams with aloe vera juice and apply them directly to problem areas.
7. Reduces Stress
Drinking aloe vera juice can help your body cope with the changes that occur in the world around you, actually helping you to adapt to these changes rather than fight against them. This is why it’s considered an adaptogen, a substance that helps the body adapt to what’s going on in its environment. Other examples of adaptogens include ginseng and goji berries.
The sort of stress that aloe vera juice can help with is both emotional and physical, allowing you to focus better in hectic times, as well as handle physical stresses to the body without escalating the problem.
It can also help the body with environmental stresses, which is important because we have little control over this, so it’s important to shore up your defenses and equip the body with what it needs to effectively thrive in constantly changing environment.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice during times of stress to help keep your composure. You can also drink it daily for regular feelings of calm and wellbeing.
8. Improved Blood Circulation
Aloe vera juice can help improve the circulation of blood throughout the body, which not only improves the condition of your heart, but can relieve other symptoms as well like cold fingers and toes, feeling fatigued, or having a mental fog.
The reason aloe vera juice is effective at improving your circulation is because it helps to increase the size of the capillaries, allowing blood to flow more freely and easily.
Aloe vera juice is no cure-all when it comes to circulatory problems. Be sure to check with your doctor if you’ve been experiencing symptoms of poor circulation. Then devise an overall approach to improving your circulation with a combination of dietary changes and more activity.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice daily to keep a healthy blood circulation, and be sure to get exercise each day to keep your circulatory system pumping.
9. Balances Blood Sugar
It may be too early to know for sure, but early signs point to aloe vera juice helping with blood sugar levels, making it a good choice for those that are concerned about developing diabetes, or those that already have it.
Early studies are promising when it comes to the antidiabetic properties of aloe vera juice, enough to make it worthwhile to try it as a potential all-natural way to help manage diabetes.
While aloe vera juice can be used to prevent diabetes, it is not a magic bullet by any means. Consult with your doctor if you are trying to avoid diabetes. They will be able to help you come up with a more comprehensive strategy.
How to use it: Drink aloe vera juice to keep blood glucose levels in check, before a meal or after a meal.
10. Acts as an Antiseptic
Aloe vera juice has antiseptic qualities to it that make it a great all-natural cleanser for many parts of the body. It works as soon as you drink it, helping to cleanse your digestive system. It also introduces substances into the bloodstream, which helps purify the blood.
Aloe vera will go to work inside the body, helping to kill off harmful bacteria while leaving alone friendly bacteria that help with digestion. It can also handle viruses that would otherwise make us sick. This is why it’s beneficial to the immune system, and why it is often brought up as a powerful all-natural way to stay healthy.
You can also use it externally to help with skin problems, and you’ll often see aloe vera gel sold as a wound healer. You can use aloe vera juice as well, and if you’re using it externally you may not need to dilute it if it is in concentrated form.
How to use it: Apply aloe vera externally, or drink it to help cleanse the body of harmful internal bacteria and viruses.
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.
It is only recently that this humble natural beverage has started receiving the attention it clearly deserves in North America. If you are not familiar with this drink, coconut water is the nearly colorless liquid contained within a coconut. Although it used to be referred to as the milk of coconut, or coconut milk, earlier, it is not to be confused with the white milky liquid extracted from coconut meat.
In its natural form, coconut water is a light, mildly sweet drink with a very slight nutty taste and astringent feel. It cannot compete with sodas or sports drinks in sweetness, but this pure drink is surprisingly satisfying. Coconut water from fresh, tender coconuts is the best, but it is now available bottled, with or without added sugar and flavors. The best, of course, is the 100% natural, with no added sugar or other preservatives or coloring.
Here are just ten reasons why you will want to learn more about this amazing tropical gift from nature…
Coconut Water Is A Clean Natural Drink
Coconuts are not nuts; they are the fruit of a tall palm Cocos nucifera with large, spreading fronds. The actual edible part is the seed kernel inside the fibrous fruit. What is unique about this seed is the large quantity of edible liquid contained within the kernel. What’s more: it is hermetically sealed in several protective layers that keep moisture, mold and bacteria from contaminating this nature’s bounty. The people of Hawaii call it “neolani” for good reason. It literally translates to “dew from the heavens.”
The tops of fresh tender coconuts are usually cut open with a sharp machete to access the goodness inside, which includes both the water and the jelly-like meat. But did you know that there’s another way to get the coconut water? When a machete is not available, native islanders remove the outer husk by hitting the coconut on a rock to loosen it off the inner shell.
This hard shell of the coconut has three eyes, and the largest among them is softer than the others. You can actually poke a hole in this eye with a stick and then upturn the shell over your mouth or insert a straw to suck up the water. It looks like nature designed this soft eye specifically for accommodating a drinking straw. Actually, it is to help the baby plant come out easily when a mature coconut sprouts.
When you drink coconut water directly from a freshly cut coconut, It is as clean and pure a drink as you can get. It does not contain any artificial preservatives, nor does it need any additives to make it palatable. It is a far cry from the sodas and juices your palate is familiar with, but most people who get to taste fresh coconut water fall in love with it. Although mild in taste, it satisfies thirst and refreshes the body.
When you cannot get fresh coconuts, the next best thing could be bottled coconut water, but always remember to check the label. Get the brand that gives pure, organic coconut water without additives.
It Rehydrates You Very Quickly
Coconut water has the ability to rehydrate you very quickly because it is readily absorbed into the body. In fact, coconut water is recognized as more hydrating than pure water. Coconut water is identical to human blood plasma and was used for transfusions during World War ll.
In places with hot and humid climates where coconut trees naturally grow, people get dehydrated very often due to heavy sweating. Locals and tourists alike find that coconut water is more hydrating than plain water or fruit juices ( which are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients). In addition, the mineral salts naturally occurring in coconut water speed up the absorption of water through the gut wall.
People who have lost a lot of blood are given coconut water, so are those who are dehydrated because of frequent vomiting and diarrhea. Coconut water is usually well-tolerated by people who suffer from nausea and aversion to food due to metallic taste in the mouth. It is often given to women who cannot keep down any food during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is also common for those who undertake severe fasting for extended periods to break it with a drink of coconut water.
Coconut Water Resolves Dyspepsia (Upset Stomach)
An upset stomach is often thought to result from indigestion, but it can be caused by any number of things, including mild gastrointestinal infections and food allergies. Whatever the reason for the upset stomach, the lining of the stomach is inflamed, and this can cause common symptoms such as nausea, bloating, uneasy feeling and loss of appetite. Coconut water works in a variety of ways to soothe the stomach lining.
An inflamed stomach lining cannot absorb even water and sugars from food. It is often accompanied by loss of essential minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Coconut water contains tannins, which are known to reduce inflammation.
‘Brat,’ (which stands for banana, rice, applesauce and toast) has been a traditional remedy for upset stomach. Coconut water can take its place as it contains more potassium than bananas. It also provides other minerals, vitamins, and some natural sugar in an absorbable form.
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.
Coconut Water Is Great For Replenishing Electrolytes
Electrolytes are essential minerals and mineral salts that regulate muscle and nerve function in our body. Blood pressure and blood pH are also regulated by electrolytes. Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Magnesium (Mg++), Calcium (Ca++), Chloride (Cl-), Phosphate (HPO4–) and Bicarbonate (HCO3-) are the seven major electrolytes in the body. The positive and negative charges carried by these ions are responsible for the electrical activity within muscle fibers and nerve cells.
The body gets these important substances from food and employs different mechanisms to maintain them at optimum levels. But excessive sweating, bleeding, and loss of bodily fluids from the gastrointestinal tract can cause imbalances and deficiencies, throwing the normal functions like heartbeat, and muscle contraction out of gear. For example, deficiency of potassium and magnesium affects muscle contraction and causes muscle cramps. This is why high potassium foods like bananas are recommended after bouts of exercise and sports practice.
A cup of coconut water not only has more than 600 mg of potassium, which is one and a half times of what you get from a banana, but has over 250 mg sodium, about 60 mg magnesium,58 mg calcium and 48 mg phosphorus. So whenever there’s a possibility of developing electrolyte imbalance, coconut water is what you can turn to for a quick fill up.
Coconut Water Is A Great Post-Workout Drink
As mentioned earlier, 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.
Some people point out that our body requires a lot more of sodium than what coconut water provides. This is true only if too much sodium has been flushed away through excess perspiration. Nevertheless, this can be easily remedied by adding a pinch or two of sea salt to your coconut water drink.
A lot of water is also lost as a result of profuse sweating during workouts. Every tissue and organ in the body requires minimum levels of hydration for their proper functioning. Severe dehydration can have far-reaching consequences, including dangerous drops in blood pressure and irregular heartbeat. Coconut water can quickly restore fluid volume in the blood as well as in the tissues due to its isotonicity with interstitial fluid and blood plasma.
According to John Isner who successfully played the longest match ever in the history of professional tennis, it is coconut water that kept him going and prevented muscle cramps all through the three days that saw him play a total of 11 hours of intense tennis.
Coconut Water Promotes Regularity of Bowel Movements
According to the traditional wisdom of ancient yoga practitioners, bowel regularity is the foundation of physical health. Food entering the body contains many indigestible and undesirable elements, including toxins. They should be eliminated as soon as possible.
Any obstruction in this natural process can result in the accumulation of these toxic substances in the digestive tract. The origin of most diseases can be traced back to our gut. The soluble fiber in coconut water helps regulate bowel movements. In fact, many yogis (practitioners of the traditional health system of yoga) start their day with fresh coconut water.
It Promotes Weight Loss/Maintenance
The weight loss claim of coconut water is under the radar, not because of any doubt regarding its efficacy, but because of apprehensions about how it is achieved. To state it more clearly, some people think that coconut water consumption leads to weight loss by causing diarrhea.
It is highly probable that one would get loose/frequent motions if coconut water, or almost any food for that matter, is taken in excess. It just an example of how “too much of a good thing can be bad” for you. When it comes to weight loss diet, people tend to overdo it.
Coconut water is a low-calorie thirst quencher that is both highly filling and satiating. Merely replacing your regular high-sugar drinks with coconut water makes it a valuable weight loss tool.
Coconut water contains fiber that keeps you feeling full for longer periods. If you have a glass of it half an hour before a meal, you will eat less. The diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut water also may be responsible since they both reduce water retention and bloating.
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.
Coconut Water Helps Reduce Blood Pressure
When you think about the blood pressure lowering capacity of coconut water, what comes to mind first is its high potassium content. This natural drink indeed is an excellent source of potassium; you get over 600 mg of this mineral from an 11 oz. can of coconut water. Compare that to the 400 mg potassium that you get from a banana. This mineral balances out the sodium content in the body that causes water retention. When water accumulates in the body, it increases blood volume and raises blood pressure. As we discussed earlier, when your diet has more potassium, it acts as a diuretic, helping the kidneys flush out excess water, thus reducing blood pressure.
However, potassium is not the only blood pressure lowering agent in coconut water. It also contains arginine which is known to relax blood vessels and improve blood circulation. This is the result of a slight increase in nitrous oxide levels brought about by the action of this amino acid. Some people take arginine supplements for its cardiovascular benefits. However, it is always best to turn to whole food/drinks for the vitamins and minerals we need.
Every cup of coconut water contains about 0.283 mg. of arginine. It is not a lot, but still sufficient for an appreciable reduction in blood pressure when you regularly drink one or two glasses. Even if you do not have hypertension, it is a great idea to drink a glass of coconut water before bed to improve your blood circulation while you sleep.
Coconut Water Is A Health Enhancer
Coconut water is an excellent general health tonic. It is treated as such in countries where it is available locally. Young children suffering malnutrition, pregnant and lactating mothers who require extra nutritional inputs, elderly people and convalescents who cannot derive sufficient nutrition from food, all benefit from coconut water. It is not just because it contains minerals, B-complex vitamins, amino acids, cytokines and many other beneficial phytochemicals. The bioavailability of all these substances makes this natural health drink far better than any other health drink formula around.
Even if you don’t have a specific condition, you should consider adding pure coconut water to your daily diet for improved overall health and energy. It is truly a gift from nature that should be respected.
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.
It is only recently that this humble natural beverage has started receiving the attention it clearly deserves in North America. If you are not familiar with this drink, coconut water is the nearly colorless liquid contained within a coconut. Although it used to be referred to as the milk of coconut, or coconut milk, earlier, it is not to be confused with the white milky liquid extracted from coconut meat.
In its natural form, coconut water is a light, mildly sweet drink with a very slight nutty taste and astringent feel. It cannot compete with sodas or sports drinks in sweetness, but this pure drink is surprisingly satisfying. Coconut water from fresh, tender coconuts is the best, but it is now available bottled, with or without added sugar and flavors. The best, of course, is the 100% natural, with no added sugar or other preservatives or coloring.
Here are just ten reasons why you will want to learn more about this amazing tropical gift from nature…
Coconut Water Is A Clean Natural Drink
Coconuts are not nuts; they are the fruit of a tall palm Cocos nucifera with large, spreading fronds. The actual edible part is the seed kernel inside the fibrous fruit. What is unique about this seed is the large quantity of edible liquid contained within the kernel. What’s more: it is hermetically sealed in several protective layers that keep moisture, mold and bacteria from contaminating this nature’s bounty. The people of Hawaii call it “neolani” for good reason. It literally translates to “dew from the heavens.”
The tops of fresh tender coconuts are usually cut open with a sharp machete to access the goodness inside, which includes both the water and the jelly-like meat. But did you know that there’s another way to get the coconut water? When a machete is not available, native islanders remove the outer husk by hitting the coconut on a rock to loosen it off the inner shell.
This hard shell of the coconut has three eyes, and the largest among them is softer than the others. You can actually poke a hole in this eye with a stick and then upturn the shell over your mouth or insert a straw to suck up the water. It looks like nature designed this soft eye specifically for accommodating a drinking straw. Actually, it is to help the baby plant come out easily when a mature coconut sprouts.
When you drink coconut water directly from a freshly cut coconut, It is as clean and pure a drink as you can get. It does not contain any artificial preservatives, nor does it need any additives to make it palatable. It is a far cry from the sodas and juices your palate is familiar with, but most people who get to taste fresh coconut water fall in love with it. Although mild in taste, it satisfies thirst and refreshes the body.
When you cannot get fresh coconuts, the next best thing could be bottled coconut water, but always remember to check the label. Get the brand that gives pure, organic coconut water without additives.
It Rehydrates You Very Quickly
Coconut water has the ability to rehydrate you very quickly because it is readily absorbed into the body. In fact, coconut water is recognized as more hydrating than pure water. Coconut water is identical to human blood plasma and was used for transfusions during World War ll.
In places with hot and humid climates where coconut trees naturally grow, people get dehydrated very often due to heavy sweating. Locals and tourists alike find that coconut water is more hydrating than plain water or fruit juices ( which are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients). In addition, the mineral salts naturally occurring in coconut water speed up the absorption of water through the gut wall.
People who have lost a lot of blood are given coconut water, so are those who are dehydrated because of frequent vomiting and diarrhea. Coconut water is usually well-tolerated by people who suffer from nausea and aversion to food due to metallic taste in the mouth. It is often given to women who cannot keep down any food during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is also common for those who undertake severe fasting for extended periods to break it with a drink of coconut water.
Coconut Water Resolves Dyspepsia (Upset Stomach)
An upset stomach is often thought to result from indigestion, but it can be caused by any number of things, including mild gastrointestinal infections and food allergies. Whatever the reason for the upset stomach, the lining of the stomach is inflamed, and this can cause common symptoms such as nausea, bloating, uneasy feeling and loss of appetite. Coconut water works in a variety of ways to soothe the stomach lining.
An inflamed stomach lining cannot absorb even water and sugars from food. It is often accompanied by loss of essential minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Coconut water contains tannins, which are known to reduce inflammation.
‘Brat,’ (which stands for banana, rice, applesauce and toast) has been a traditional remedy for upset stomach. Coconut water can take its place as it contains more potassium than bananas. It also provides other minerals, vitamins, and some natural sugar in an absorbable form.
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.
Coconut Water Is Great For Replenishing Electrolytes
Electrolytes are essential minerals and mineral salts that regulate muscle and nerve function in our body. Blood pressure and blood pH are also regulated by electrolytes. Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Magnesium (Mg++), Calcium (Ca++), Chloride (Cl-), Phosphate (HPO4–) and Bicarbonate (HCO3-) are the seven major electrolytes in the body. The positive and negative charges carried by these ions are responsible for the electrical activity within muscle fibers and nerve cells.
The body gets these important substances from food and employs different mechanisms to maintain them at optimum levels. But excessive sweating, bleeding, and loss of bodily fluids from the gastrointestinal tract can cause imbalances and deficiencies, throwing the normal functions like heartbeat, and muscle contraction out of gear. For example, deficiency of potassium and magnesium affects muscle contraction and causes muscle cramps. This is why high potassium foods like bananas are recommended after bouts of exercise and sports practice.
A cup of coconut water not only has more than 600 mg of potassium, which is one and a half times of what you get from a banana, but has over 250 mg sodium, about 60 mg magnesium,58 mg calcium and 48 mg phosphorus. So whenever there’s a possibility of developing electrolyte imbalance, coconut water is what you can turn to for a quick fill up.
Coconut Water Is A Great Post-Workout Drink
As mentioned earlier, 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.
Some people point out that our body requires a lot more of sodium than what coconut water provides. This is true only if too much sodium has been flushed away through excess perspiration. Nevertheless, this can be easily remedied by adding a pinch or two of sea salt to your coconut water drink.
A lot of water is also lost as a result of profuse sweating during workouts. Every tissue and organ in the body requires minimum levels of hydration for their proper functioning. Severe dehydration can have far-reaching consequences, including dangerous drops in blood pressure and irregular heartbeat. Coconut water can quickly restore fluid volume in the blood as well as in the tissues due to its isotonicity with interstitial fluid and blood plasma.
According to John Isner who successfully played the longest match ever in the history of professional tennis, it is coconut water that kept him going and prevented muscle cramps all through the three days that saw him play a total of 11 hours of intense tennis.
Coconut Water Promotes Regularity of Bowel Movements
According to the traditional wisdom of ancient yoga practitioners, bowel regularity is the foundation of physical health. Food entering the body contains many indigestible and undesirable elements, including toxins. They should be eliminated as soon as possible.
Any obstruction in this natural process can result in the accumulation of these toxic substances in the digestive tract. The origin of most diseases can be traced back to our gut. The soluble fiber in coconut water helps regulate bowel movements. In fact, many yogis (practitioners of the traditional health system of yoga) start their day with fresh coconut water.
It Promotes Weight Loss/Maintenance
The weight loss claim of coconut water is under the radar, not because of any doubt regarding its efficacy, but because of apprehensions about how it is achieved. To state it more clearly, some people think that coconut water consumption leads to weight loss by causing diarrhea.
It is highly probable that one would get loose/frequent motions if coconut water, or almost any food for that matter, is taken in excess. It just an example of how “too much of a good thing can be bad” for you. When it comes to weight loss diet, people tend to overdo it.
Coconut water is a low-calorie thirst quencher that is both highly filling and satiating. Merely replacing your regular high-sugar drinks with coconut water makes it a valuable weight loss tool.
Coconut water contains fiber that keeps you feeling full for longer periods. If you have a glass of it half an hour before a meal, you will eat less. The diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties of coconut water also may be responsible since they both reduce water retention and bloating.
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.
Coconut Water Helps Reduce Blood Pressure
When you think about the blood pressure lowering capacity of coconut water, what comes to mind first is its high potassium content. This natural drink indeed is an excellent source of potassium; you get over 600 mg of this mineral from an 11 oz. can of coconut water. Compare that to the 400 mg potassium that you get from a banana. This mineral balances out the sodium content in the body that causes water retention. When water accumulates in the body, it increases blood volume and raises blood pressure. As we discussed earlier, when your diet has more potassium, it acts as a diuretic, helping the kidneys flush out excess water, thus reducing blood pressure.
However, potassium is not the only blood pressure lowering agent in coconut water. It also contains arginine which is known to relax blood vessels and improve blood circulation. This is the result of a slight increase in nitrous oxide levels brought about by the action of this amino acid. Some people take arginine supplements for its cardiovascular benefits. However, it is always best to turn to whole food/drinks for the vitamins and minerals we need.
Every cup of coconut water contains about 0.283 mg. of arginine. It is not a lot, but still sufficient for an appreciable reduction in blood pressure when you regularly drink one or two glasses. Even if you do not have hypertension, it is a great idea to drink a glass of coconut water before bed to improve your blood circulation while you sleep.
Coconut Water Is A Health Enhancer
Coconut water is an excellent general health tonic. It is treated as such in countries where it is available locally. Young children suffering malnutrition, pregnant and lactating mothers who require extra nutritional inputs, elderly people and convalescents who cannot derive sufficient nutrition from food, all benefit from coconut water. It is not just because it contains minerals, B-complex vitamins, amino acids, cytokines and many other beneficial phytochemicals. The bioavailability of all these substances makes this natural health drink far better than any other health drink formula around.
Even if you don’t have a specific condition, you should consider adding pure coconut water to your daily diet for improved overall health and energy. It is truly a gift from nature that should be respected.
Aloe vera juice is the latest health and beauty craze and it’s easy to see why.
The benefits of the stuff seem endless. After all, the Sanskrit name for aloe vera is kumari, which means ‘princess’, attesting to its ability to help you maintain youthful beauty and a healthy glow. Sounds good, right?
Sebastian Pole, co-founder of Pukka Herbs and an expert in herbalism, says: ‘Aloe Vera is renowned as a ’heal-all’ that is good for many conditions, both internal and external.
‘It is a great rejuvenator and can help in some of life’s big transitions, from cleansing teenage skin to cooling menopausal hot flushes and soothing dryness.’
Here, Sebastian breaks down the benefits of aloe vera juice:
Coconut is one fruit on this planet that provides both nutritious food as well as drink at the same time. Coconut is a perfect storehouse of various nutrients, minerals, vitamins and dietary fibres. Coconuts are also regarded as wonder foods because of their life saving properties.
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