With people adopting a vegan diet and getting health-conscious, coconut water has become a household favorite. Its dynamic nature can be consumed on its own or mixed with any other beverage to make a refreshing poolside drink. Coconut water is the one-stop solution for your pregnancy cravings and nutrient requirements. Read more to find out more about the amazing benefits of drinking coconut water during pregnancy. 
Is it safe to drink coconut water when pregnant?
The first criterion to be considered with dietary choices during pregnancy is safe. Yes, drinking coconut water in pregnancy is safe, but in moderation, as with any other food. The important thing to note is coconut water is rich in electrolytes, replenishing energy and minerals required during pregnancy. It would help if you remembered that overconsumption could lead to an excess of electrolytes which can be harmful. Two cups of coconut water per day are sufficient.13 Benefits of coconut water during pregnancy -
1. Keeps Hydrated -
Giving proper hydration to the body is essential during pregnancy. Coconut water is among the best sources of hydration, especially during the hot summer months. It is naturally sweet and has no harmful additives of other beverages, making it more enjoyable than plain water and keeping hydration easy.2. Aids in Morning Sickness -
Morning sickness is a common condition during pregnancy and occurs in about 70 percent of pregnant women, starting at 6 weeks of pregnancy and lasting for a few weeks or even months in some cases. Due to morning sickness, you need fluids to compensate, and coconut water comes to help in this case; it provides the necessary electrolytes which help stabilize the body.3. Improves Digestive Health -
When consumed regularly, coconut water improves your gut health, promoting regular bowel movements and helping prevent constipation. It also regulates your PH levels. This leads to the overall improvement in your metabolism and detoxification.4. Soothes Acid Reflux -
During pregnancy, your stomach valves can become more relaxed due to increased progesterone levels, leading to sour burps. Coconut water can provide relief from this condition by way of soothing your stomach. Hence, it prevents acid refluxes.5. Promotes Fetal Development -
Providing proper nutrition to the fetus is vital for the effective development of the child. Coconut water is packed with nutrients and provides calcium, potassium, and magnesium to the body.6. Relieves Joint Pain -
The body goes through multiple changes during pregnancy; often, the bones can weaken, and you can experience joint pains and stiff inflamed muscles. Coconut water is loaded with magnesium, highly recommended for relaxing the muscles. Drinking coconut water can help relieve the pain by relaxing and soothing your muscles.7. Lowers Blood Pressure -
Some pregnant women may experience low blood pressure during pregnancy. As coconut water is full of potassium, which helps regulate blood flow and pressure, it is a wise choice to consume coconut water during pregnancy if you experience low blood pressure.8. Protects Against Infections -
Coconut has natural diuretic properties, which means it. Increases the urge to urinate because of the minerals present in it. Urination helps in ridding the body of toxins and helps prevent UTIs. It also aids in lowering the chances of preterm labor and kidney stones or infections.9. Natural source of energy -
If you are following an active regime during your pregnancy consisting of light workouts, which doctors advise, coconut water makes for the perfect post-workout drink. It is low in sugar and rich in dietary fiber, which helps replenish the energy lost during workouts.10. Boosts immunity -
Due to its high quantity of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it boosts immunity in pregnant mothers and also protects them from various diseases.11. Source of electrolytes -
The need for electrolytes in pregnant women is high. Pregnant women can be affected by nausea and diarrhea frequently. To compensate for the essential electrolytes, coconut water is highly recommended as it contains sodium, potassium, phosphorus and other minerals.12. Maintaining heart health -
Consuming coconut water regularly can help maintain electrolyte levels, which regulate blood pressure and combats bad cholesterol. A properly maintained blood pressure is good for your cardiac health.13. Weight regulator
You can gain extra weight during your pregnancy. Coconut water is fat-free and has a low level of calories. Replacing sugary drinks with coconut water can help maintain weight as it does not add extra inches and controls hunger pangs.Nutritional Value of coconut water -
The nutrient composition of coconut water (per 100 grams) is as follows:| Content | Amount (per 100 gm) | Recommended Dietary Allowances |
| Water | 94.99g | - |
| Energy | 19 KCal | - |
| Sugar | 2.61 g | - |
| Calcium | 24 mg | 1000 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg | 350 mg |
| Phosphorous | 20 mg | 700 mg |
| Potassium | 250 mg | 2900 mg |
| Sodium | 105 mg | 1500 mg |
Myths associated with coconut water -
There are several myths about how coconut water can be harmful during pregnancy. Here is a list of common myths and the truth behind them.Coconut water is called magic water
Because coconut water is rich in nutrients, it is sometimes said that it is magic water. Although it holds, consider that too much of anything is bad, be it magical coconut water or any other element in your diet. Consume coconut water as a part of a healthy balanced diet to reap its benefits.Coconut water helps with the baby's hair
There is no research proving coconut water can give your baby a scalp full of thick hair. So this myth holds false.Coconut water can help the baby's skin and health
Although coconut water will help your baby's health by providing nutrition, it does not guarantee a fair skin complexion. The baby's skin color depends on genetics, the mother's health, etc.Coconut water can lead to acidity
Some people believe it can cause acidity, but it is false. The reason for acidity during pregnancy is an expansion of the belly, which is not related to coconut water.Possible side-effects of coconut water -
Coconut water has no side effects, but you should be mindful of its consumption.- You should not substitute regular water with coconut water but consume it as a part of a balanced diet.
- Another thing to remember is the packaged coconut water available in the market these days; some brands often include sweeteners in the water, making it harmful.
- The added sugar can lead to issues like weight gain or disbalance the blood sugar levels. Thus, the best option is to consume natural coconut water without added sugar.
- You must also consult your doctor if you are allergic to coconut, as it may do more harm than good.
Final takeaway -
Coconut water during pregnancy is a healthy alternative to sugary drinks and packaged juices available in the market. Due to its richness in nutrient content, it is extremely beneficial for pregnant women. It provides the required electrolytes and helps with nausea and morning sickness. It is indeed a magic drink when consumed in moderation.
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