Coconut water is found beneath the thick husk of the coconut.
Coconut water, also known as coconut juice, is the liquid found inside a coconut seed, which is the round, brown "fruit" of a coconut tree. A nutritious beverage, coconut water often is used as an electrolyte-replenishing sports drink after sustained exercise.
Characteristics
Drink pure or mixed coconut water directly from the coconut.
Coconut water is a runny, nearly clear liquid with an almond-like flavor. In a 100-milliliter serving, coconut water has 294 mg of potassium, 25 mg of sodium, 5 mg of natural sugar and 118 mg of chloride. It also contains calcium and magnesium, and it might contain some fiber, protein and vitamin C, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Harvesting
Break open the husk of the coconut to access the coconut water. You can drink the naturally filtered water directly from the coconut or mix it with sweetener. If you do not live near coconut trees, you may be able to purchase raw or sweetened coconut juice at your local market or health food store.
Benefits
Because coconut water can replenish electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, it is a healthy alternative to high-sugar sports beverages. Water enters the coconut through its husk, which filters the water and leaves it naturally sterile.
Misconceptions
Though coconut water has a reputation for battling viruses, controlling diabetes, preventing cancer and other miraculous powers, none of these claims have been substantiated.
Fun Fact
Coconut water's natural sterility and electrolyte-restoring properties earned it the nickname "fluid of life." During World War II, both sides of the war in the South Pacific used coconut water as a safe substitute for intravenous plasma because coconut water has the same electrolyte balance as blood. It is still used this way in some parts of the world.
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