Is it true that Coconut Water Can Kept Healthy?

Many people love coconut water because it is refreshing, especially when consumed with ice cubes during hot weather. However, it turns out that coconut water is not only delicious on the tongue, but also has a number of health benefits. One of them is able to nourish the kidneys.

In addition to water content, coconut or Cocos nucifera L. contains fiber and a number of important nutrients. His content includes vitamins and minerals that are often not met by the needs of the body. Some of them, namely vitamin B1, vitamin B7 (folic acid), vitamin C, potassium, sodium, magnesium, manganese, copper, selenium, iron, and phosphorus.

Well, specifically for kidney health, coconut water can provide benefits through several ways, namely:

1. Stabilize blood sugar levels

High blood sugar levels can damage the kidney blood vessels. Over time, the kidney filtering system will be damaged and affect its ability to remove residual metabolism, toxins, and excess fluid in the body. In diabetes, a complication called diabetic nephropathy can lead to kidney failure during uncontrolled blood sugar levels.

In 2015, studies were conducted on diabetic-induced rats. The results showed that consumption of coconut water in these mice could improve blood sugar levels and decrease HbA1c levels, a marker of long-term blood sugar control.

This is because coconut water contains magnesium minerals, which can make the body's cells respond more to the work of the hormone insulin so that sugar levels can be lowered. In addition, this drink is also rich in antioxidants to fight free radicals that can accelerate kidney damage.

1. Prevent kidney stones

The key to preventing kidney stones is actually the adequacy of drinking water. Until now, water is the best. However, there are studies that suggest that coconut water is more useful.

Kidney stones are formed when the composition of body fluids, minerals, and the degree of urine acidity is not balanced. In particular, when crystalline components such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid in the urine increase. If conditions permit, these crystal-forming components can stick together, which then appears as kidney stones.

In a study of rats with kidney stones, it was found that coconut water makes these crystals do not stick to the kidneys or other urinary tract. The amount of crystals formed in the urine is reduced. However, this is the first study to examine the effects of coconut water on kidney stones. So, still another study is needed to confirm the real effect.

1. Lowering blood pressure

Kidneys are organs that are rich in blood vessels. Although these blood vessels look smooth and small, the volume of blood flowing through it is enormous. If a person has uncontrolled high blood pressure, the kidney vessels will be damaged and eventually the kidney function will decrease.

A study examined the effect of coconut water consumption on individuals with high blood pressure. It was found that 71 percent of individuals experienced significant improvement in systolic blood pressure. Coconut water is known to be rich in potassium minerals (600 mg in 240 mL), which has an effect on lowering blood pressure, both in individuals with high blood pressure and normal.

Then, is there any limitation of coconut water consumption?

Coconut water is a delicious and healthy natural drink. To get the benefits, just consume one glass per day. High potassium content in it-even beyond bananas-can cause hyperkalemia or excess potassium in the blood. The condition of this hyperkalemia can trigger a heart rhythm disturbance, which is potentially life threatening.

If you already have kidney disorders, you need to be careful in consuming coconut water. It's good to consult in advance with the treating doctor. This is because the risk of hyperkalemia becomes much higher in those who have suffered kidney damage. To feel the benefits of coconut water that can nourish the kidneys optimally, do not forget to apply a healthy lifestyle, yes. Enjoy!