Coconut water is something of a miracle when it comes to curing health ailments and improving the overall health of kids. Talk to any parent and they have something to say about their child’s health and their eating habits as most children have some issue with different kinds of food. Coconut water nutrition is one of the best and the benefits of coconut water are many as it’s refreshing, nutritious, natural and a powerhouse of energy. Children love its taste, it’s easy to consume, provides the nutrients their body requires and is easy to digest. Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of this wonder fruit and see what coconut water is good for.
Prevents Dehydration
Coconut water is perfect for preventing dehydration, especially in hot summers as it has adequate nutrients and liquid for your child’s health requirements. It’s better than any
energy drink and is packed with sodium, potassium and natural sugars.
Aids in Digestion
Coconut water is full of fibre and a glass full of it fulfils the water requirement for your child’s body and thus improves digestion. IAcid reflux is also known to be cured by coconut water.
Cures Gastrointestinal Diseases
Fresh coconut water aids in curing several gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea, ulcers, piles, dyspepsia, vomiting and flatulence. Intestinal worms are common in children and coconut water is an effective treatment for it.
Aids in Urinary Tract Health
Urinary tract issues are very common in children and may have symptoms ranging from itching to irritation to infections in the urinary tract. Sometimes, kids may have problems urinating due to drinking insufficient water which may eventually result in kidney stones. A glass of coconut water helps in flushing out the kidneys properly as it acts as a diuretic and helps to clear the infection from their bladder and urinary tract.
Boosts Energy Levels
Coconut water not only contains carbohydrates, it has a low sugar content and is packed with minerals. These minerals are sodium, potassium and calcium as well as manganese, chloride and phosphorus. These nutrients are required for your child to feel fresh, hydrated and energetic. As it is in a liquid form the nutrients are instantly absorbed in the blood.
Improves Bone Strength
Due to its huge content of calcium, coconut water makes bones strong. This calcium is absorbed immediately by the bones as it reaches them through the blood in no time.
Improves Blood Circulation
Coconut water is known to boost blood circulation which improves the oxygen intake and absorption of your child’s body. This makes them healthier and more energetic which eventually enhances their concentration level too. Enhanced blood circulation carries more oxygen to the skin and gets rid of impurities.
Protects Against Toxicity
The benefits of coconut water are unquestionable as a full glass of coconut water has a neutralising effect on many types of disorders caused by toxins like dysentery, constipation, heartburn, dengue, bacterial infections and viral fevers.
Improves Skin
As coconut water is rich in minerals, it helps to remove excess oil from the body and improves the moisture content of skin. It greatly reduces the chances of infections, skin irritation and itching as it contains antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral agents. It moisturises your child’s skin from within and can also be applied topically to prevent acne. It firms the skin giving it a clean and healthy glow.
Prevents Cramps
Coconut water is full of potassium which prevents cramps. Especially if your child is heavily into outdoor activities like sports and jumping, adding coconut water to their diet can be a real game changer.
Importance of Coconut Water
Coconut water for babies and nursing mothers is a must as it’s a great source of energy and nutrients. In fact, it’s considered next to breast milk as far as its benefits are concerned. This is because coconut water contains a wonder compound called monolaurin which strengthens a baby’s immune system and helps them to fight illness and infections. Coconut water is packed with many essential nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, fibre, calcium, sodium, potassium and vitamin C making it a complete food while it’s low in calories.
Guidelines to be Observed
- Although there is no denying the benefits of coconut water, there are still a few precautions that need to be observed for your child’s safety as not all coconut water is equal.
- Natural coconut water obtained directly from the inside of the coconut is the safest. Many parents buy bottled coconut water which though usually free of dyes and other harmful additives, may still have added ingredients.
- Some packaged coconut water has a lot of added sugar. It’s important to read the label carefully to ensure that your child is not consuming too much sugar.
- Too much coconut water can be very filling for babies and they may eat less. It’s desirable for younger children to eat a wide variety of food for a balanced diet and to develop a taste for food. Ensure that your child is having a varied diet along with the coconut water.
- Ensure that the coconut water is clear and does not have small pieces of coconut floating in it. It can be a choking hazard for small children and is not safe.
- Babies below the age of 6 months have a high risk of developing allergies. Do not give them coconut water till they cross this age as the younger the child, the higher the chance of allergies. Start with just a few sips of coconut water for babies for about 3 days. If your child does not show any adverse signs, you can safely add it to their diet.
Coconut water is a natural drink that is extremely nutritious and delicious. It is low in both fat and calories but a rich source of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients like iron, sodium and potassium as well as chloride, phosphorus and a host of others. It has a positive effect on almost every organ of the body and your child’s health would benefit greatly from it. Make sure you give your child a glass of coconut water every day and watch them as they glow with health and vitality. You can also visit the EuroKids website regularly to update yourself with useful information so that you can take the best possible care of your baby and family.
