A Quick Refresher on Coconut Water

So what exactly is coconut water? It's the thin, clear juice found in young coconuts- not coconut milk, which is squeezed from coconut meat. It is FULL of nutrients that are essential for the body, including potassium, vitamin C and magnesium...it also contains more electrolytes than any other fruit or vegetable juice. Basically, it's like Nature's own gatorade, and the best part is, it doesn't contain any fillers or artificial sugars. So on a super hot day or after a sweaty workout, this is exactly what I reach for to rehydrate my body.

I love the fact that the flavor is super mild. This makes it ideal for mixing. Sometimes I'll add it into a green juice, and other times I'll use a little to perk up a kombucha. You can also use coconut water as a base in smoothies instead of a "mylk" or water. It makes everything taste so refreshing and light!

If I'm in a rush, I'll buy some in a bottle or a can, but my absolute top choice is to buy a REAL coconut and chop it open myself! This takes a little bit of practice and a LOT of patience. Trust me, I've spent painstaking hours trying to perfect the art of coconut cracking, but if you have the time and are up for the challenge, the struggle is absolutely worth it. The liquid is so pure and concentrated, and your sense of accomplishment will shoot through the roof... it's all about the little victories (and trust me, this will definitely feel like a satisfying one)!

So if you haven't jumped on the coconut train yet, no worries. There is still plenty of time to hop aboard and give it a shot, and in the case that you like it, possibly a few hefty gulps!

What are some of your favorite ways to use coconut water? Tell @PhilosophieMama on Twitter!