Did you know that you can crack open a fresh coconut almost anywhere in Jamaica? Street vendors and supermarkets will readily supply them for you. The light, sweet taste is almost synonymous with island life, and it is extremely good for you.
It’s Good for You
Coconut water is a natural source of minerals that will help your body beat the heat and keep you in ship-shape during your stay. One cup of it holds 15% of the recommended intake of magnesium and 17% of your daily manganese.
It is also a higher source of potassium than a banana and is an excellent source of calcium and fiber as well, with lower sodium and fat than a bottle of soda or a sports drink.
But what exactly does all this mean?
Well, it means that you will find yourself feeling more satisfied after drinking coconut water than almost any other drink. While it is low calorie, it tricks your body into feeling a little fuller than it would because it presents so many nutrients in an easy-to-metabolize manner.
Its high content of magnesium and manganese will make it a little easier to flush any toxins out of your system (including helping prevent the dreaded kidney stone) and regulate blood sugar and insulin in a completely natural way. Yes, I said insulin. Coconut water has been scientifically proven to help diabetics in a gentle manner in a multitude of scientific studies. Hemoglobin A1c is vastly reduced, and repeated use keeps it that way.
It’s also proven to replenish electrolytes in a natural manner, making it competitive with Gatorade and Powerade without the added ingredients list with more potassium, which is good for your blood pressure and your heart, since it helps balance out the sodium you accumulate throughout the day and helps replenish the sodium you lose while you’re sweating.
Grab it While on Vacation
Interested yet? You might also find that it pairs well with jerk spices and balances the spice out as well as a glass of milk does, so it makes a great option to have with your meal as well as a stand alone drink. I also find it a perfect pairing to fresh fruit for breakfast, which is a great way to start your day in Jamaica.
Hotels throughout Jamaica seem to agree, as fruit is an option for breakfast almost universally in resorts throughout the island.
As mentioned above, coconut water is a plentiful product in Jamaica, and it gives you plenty of health benefits while making sure you stay hydrated in a delicious way. Sit back, relax, crack open a fresh coconut, and improve your health by enjoying the taste of the tropics without the guilt of ruining your diet. You may find it addictive enough to seek it out when you come back home.
Que vivas durante todos los días de tu vida. ¡Salud!
[kkstarratings]
