ZICO Benefits

New year – Healthier you? If so, drinking coconut water should be on the top of your list!

Coconut water comes from young green coconuts before the hairy shell we know has developed. For thousands of years coconut water has been a pure source of hydration, nutrition and well being for people in the tropics. Coconut water is credited with many health giving benefits! In it's raw state, coconut water is 'isotonic' meaning it is one of the closest things to the composition of the fluids in our own bodies. A favourite for many sports men and models it is the ideal thirst quencher!

Being hydrated is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself, 60% of your body is composed by water and is perhaps the most important element in your diet. Hydration is vital to many parts of your body's processes:

• Cells - The water in your body is crucial for transporting nutrients to your cells.
• Muscles and Joints – water plays a big role in cushioning your joint from impact and in helping the your muscles function properly
• Digestion – water is apparent in every stage of the digestion process, it dissolves nutrients so that they can be delivered to your body's cells.
• Temperature Control – water is the body's cooling system, when the body over heats it sweats loosing water and minerals which need to be quickly replaced, this is where isotonic drinks are valueable.
• Brain – Just a 1-2% drop in your body's fluid levels will affect your ability to concentrate.
• Skin- water maintains skin's elasticity, softness and tone.
• Kidneys – Your kidneys are your body's detoxing centres and need to be flushed with water in order to work properly.
• Heart – Hydration maintains proper blood pressure, dehydration decreases heart function and can lead to reduce blood pressure.

As well as keeping you Hydrated allows your body to function properly Coconut water is:

• Low in carbs and sugars
• 99% fat free
• replenishes your body fluids after exercising
• Raises metabolism and promotes weight loss.

With Coconut water being an alternative to sports drinks such as Gatorade, as this is high in sugar and low in the nutrients you need, you should drink coconut water during light physical activity rather than intense work outs.