Most experts say that plain old-fashioned water is a perfect thirst-quencher, and I agree. But I know that many people turn to sports drinks like Gatorade, especially when they're very parched. There's nothing wrong with that once and a while, but if you're looking for a more natural option give coconut water a try.
Coconut water seems to be growing in popularity, because lately I'm spotting it everywhere. It's hard to describe the taste, but I find it mildly sweet and refreshing (and best when served iced cold). I've enjoyed it on occasion when the mood strikes, but recently I learned that it's also a good substitute for a sports drink like Gatorade. That's because it has a similar nutrient profile.
According to Katherine Mone, a registered dietician with Cleveland Clinic's Nutrition Therapy Department, coconut water contains a variety of electrolytes and minerals that help keep you hydrated. Potassium is especially important because it helps muscles function properly and plays a role in maintaining fluid balance in the body. An 8 oz serving of coconut water has about 45 calories, 11 grams sugar, 43mg sodium, 480mg potassium, and provides 175% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
One word of caution: Don't confuse fat-free coconut water (the clear liquid found on the inside of the fruit) with coconut milk (a high-fat milky-white substance derived from the meat of the coconut and used in many Southeast Asian recipes).
Have you tried coconut water? What do you think it tastes like?
—Barbara Brody, Health Editor