Drinking coconut water is known for extremely beneficial during pregnancy. Coconut water during pregnancy is a organic and safe drink, which keeps the body hydrated as well as provides many nutrients. Coconut contains electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium. Which maintain the body’s water and salt balance. Pregnant women often have problems like indigestion, gas, acidity, and constipation.
Coconut water helps to overcome these problems as it improves digestion and cools the stomach. Also, it helps to flush out toxins from the body, keeping both the pregnant woman and the baby healthy. Coconut water contains natural sugars, which are a good source of energy and reduce fatigue.
It is also helpful in controlling blood pressure. Drinking coconut water on an empty stomach in the morning is considered especially beneficial. However, it is important to consult a doctor before including any new thing in the diet.
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What is coconut water
Coconut water during pregnancy is a natural and refreshing drink found inside raw, green coconuts. It tastes mildly sweet and slightly salty. Coconut water contains nutrients like electrolytes, potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamins. Which provide energy to the body and remove dehydration.
It helps in improving digestion, improving skin and reducing weight. It is an excellent natural drink in summers. Which cools and refreshes the body. It is also considered beneficial for pregnant women.
Nutritional profile
Coconut water is a natural, low-calorie beverage that helps hydrate the body. It is rich in potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C and electrolytes. It improves digestion, moisturizes the skin and boosts energy. It is an excellent natural energy drink in the summer. Let’s know main nutrients which found in coconut water.
- Water – Helpful in keeping the body. hydrated.
- Potassium – Essential for muscle and heart health.
- Magnesium – For the functioning of bones and muscles.
- Calcium – For strengthening bones and teeth.
- Sodium – Helpful in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.
- Phosphorus – For energy production and cell repair.
- Chloride – Helpful in digestion.
- Vitamin C – Strengthens the immune system.
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – Essential for energy metabolism.
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – Beneficial for skin and eyes.
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – Controls cholesterol.
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) – Helpful in hormone production.
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) – Balances brain development and mood.
- Folate/B9 – Helpful in formation of new cells.
- Antioxidants – Protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Glucose – Provides quick energy to the body.
- Fructose – Source of natural sugar.
- Citric Acid – Improves digestion.
- Amino Acids – Helpful in repairing and building the body.
- Fiber – Keeps the digestive system healthy.
Coconut water benefits for pregnancy
Drinking coconut water during pregnancy is extremely beneficial. It keeps the body hydrated, reduces fatigue and improves digestion. The electrolytes present in it such as potassium and magnesium help maintain the body’s balance. This natural drink is beneficial for the health of both mother and child. Let’s know 10 benefits of coconut water for pregnancy.
Helpful in keeping the body hydrated
Women need more water during pregnancy so that there is no shortage of water in their body. Coconut water is a natural electrolyte drink, which helps in hydrating the body. It contains elements like potassium, sodium, magnesium which maintain fluid balance in the body. It removes dehydration caused by heat and vomiting and provides energy to both mother and child. Regular consumption also reduces fatigue and keeps the body fresh.
Improves the digestive system
Problems like constipation, gas and indigestion are common during pregnancy. Coconut water has a good amount of fiber which keeps digestion healthy. It cools the stomach and relieves acidity. The natural enzymes present in it speed up the digestion process and help in digesting food easily. By consuming it, the stomach feels light and the problem of nausea also reduces. A glass of coconut water daily is very beneficial for digestion.
Boost immunity
The immune system can weaken during pregnancy, that increasing the risk of infection. Coconut water has antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties that increase the body’s immunity. It protects against colds, coughs, viral infections and common diseases. The lauric acid present in it also helps in flushing out toxins from the body. It is a safe and natural way for a pregnant woman to avoid diseases.
Control blood pressure
Blood pressure imbalance can become a serious problem during pregnancy. Coconut water contains high amounts of potassium which helps in keeping blood pressure balanced. It is helpful in preventing conditions like high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia. Regular consumption of it improves blood circulation and does not put pressure on the heart. Drinking coconut water during pregnancy as per doctor’s advice is helpful in maintaining blood pressure at a safe level.
Relief from morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting are very common in the first trime of pregnancy, which is called morning sickness. Coconut water during pregnancy is a natural drink that cools the body and soothes the stomach. The electrolytes present in it help control nausea. It balances the acid in the stomach and also reduces aversion to food. Coconut water is an effective remedy for pregnant women to get relief from morning sickness.
Prevention of urinary tract infection
There is a high possibility of urinary tract infection (UTI) during pregnancy. Which can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. Coconut water helps to clear the urethra and helps in excreting more urine. The antibacterial properties present in it do not allow bacteria to grow and protect against infection. It is a natural diuretic that also keeps the kidneys healthy. A glass of coconut water daily is effective in preventing UTI.
Beneficial for control weight
Weight gain during pregnancy is normal, but excess weight can lead to several health problems. Coconut water during pregnancy is a low-calorie beverage that keeps the body hydrated and controls appetite. It contains no fat, so it is a healthier option than sugary drinks. It also improves metabolism and maintains energy in the body. Coconut water is an ideal beverage for women who want to maintain healthy weight.
Glowing skin and relief from irritation
Due to hormonal changes in pregnancy, problems like acne, itching or irritation can occur on the skin. Coconut water during pregnancy nourishes the skin from within and detoxes the body. Its consumption increases the glow of the skin and also reduces rashes. It is a natural cooler that balances the body heat. Regular consumption keeps the skin moist and the face of the pregnant woman glowing.
Boost energy
It is common to feel tired and weak during pregnancy. Coconut water contains natural sugars and electrolytes that provide freshness and fill the body with energy. It recharges the body instantly, without any artificial sugar. The content of glucose and potassium in it reduces fatigue and maintains balance in the body. Its consumption is even more beneficial in summers.
Beneficial for development of the fetus
The nutrients present in coconut water during pregnancy such as calcium, magnesium. And potassium are extremely essential for the development of the mother as well as the baby. It not only keeps the mother hydrated. But also helps in the development of the fetus’ bones, brain and digestive system. Coconut water helps in delivering oxygen and nutrition to the fetus by improving the mother’s blood circulation. It is a natural tonic that is beneficial throughout pregnancy.
How to drink coconut water during pregnancy?
Drinking coconut water during pregnancy is safe and beneficial. It hydrates the body, improve digestion and provides essential nutrients. To drink it correctly, follow the below mentioned tips.
Be mindful of the timing:- It is best to drink coconut water in the morning on an empty stomach during pregnancy. It detoxifies the body and gives you energy to start the day.
Choose fresh and green coconut:- Always drink water from fresh green coconuts. Old or yellow coconuts may contain more fat, which is not good during pregnancy.
Drink on an empty stomach:- Do not drink coconut water during pregnancy immediately after a meal. Have it either on an empty stomach or between two meals, so that the body can absorb the nutrients properly.
Do not drink cold coconut water:- Drinking very cold coconut water can cause a sore throat or cold. Especially in pregnant women who have low immunity.
Once a day is enough:- One coconut water during pregnancy a day is enough. Drinking more than that can lead to digestive problems or electrolyte imbalance.
What say experts about coconut water
According to experts, coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich drink that helps keep the body hydrated, improve digestion and provide energy. It contains nutrients like potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamin C, which are beneficial for the body. Dieticians and Ayurveda experts believe that this drink is very useful especially in summers to cool for body.
It prevent dehydration and improve the skin. It is also considered safe and nutritious for pregnant women. According to doctors, coconut water is beneficial for blood pressure control, improving digestion and cleaning the kidneys, but should be consumed in limited quantities, especially if you have kidney or sugar problems.
Where found coconut tree
Coconut tree is mainly found in coastal areas. It grows well in tropical climate. In India, it is found in abundance especially in the southern states. Below is a list of some major places where coconut trees are found in abundance in india.
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- Karnataka
- Andhra Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Goa
- Odisha
- West Bengal
- Lakshadweep and Andaman-Nicobar Islands
Coconut trees are also found in large numbers in countries like Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Brazil and Hawaii (USA).
Side effects of coconut water
Although coconut water during pregnancy is beneficial for health, its excessive consumption can cause some side effects. It contains high amount of potassium, which can cause hyperkalemia (excess potassium in the blood) if consumed in excess. This condition can cause irregular heartbeat. It can also be harmful for diabetics as it contains natural sugar. Coconut water has a diuretic effect, which can cause frequent urination.
And flush out essential electrolytes from the body. Some people may also have allergies to it, such as itching, swelling or difficulty in breathing. Pregnant women should consume it in balanced quantities. If you are taking any particular medicine, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming coconut water. Consumption in balanced quantities is safe.
Coconut water during pregnancy related FAQs
Ans. You can start drinking coconut water from the first month of pregnancy. It is beneficial in all trimesters (first, second, third trimester).
Ans. Yes, coconut water abundant in electrolytes that help keep the body hydrated. It is even more useful in summer season.
Ans. If you have gestational diabetes, take coconut water in limited quantity. And consult a doctor as it contains natural sugar.
Ans. Fresh coconut water is the best. Packaged coconut water may contain preservatives and extra sugar, which is not considered appropriate in pregnancy.
Ans. Yes, coconut water cools the body and provides relief from vomiting and nausea during pregnancy.
