Is Coconut Water Diabetic Friendly?

How is Coconut Water Helpful for Diabetics?

Extracted from young, green coconuts, coconut water is a thin liquid with naturally occurring sugar, giving it a slightly sweet taste. Take a look at some of the best advantages of including coconut water in your diet if you’re struggling with diabetes:

Great Source of Nutrients

Coconut water is a great source of minerals and other nutrients including Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorous, Iron, and Calcium. A single serving of 240 ml is a great addition to your daily supplements and perfectly balances your daily sugar intake.

Improves Immunity

Coconut water contains lauric acid, which helps to boost your immunity. Additionally, it also contains vitamins like riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, thiamin and folates, which have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. If you stick to the diet suggested by your doctor, drinking coconut water daily will boost immunity and improve your metabolism.

Boosts Metabolism

One cup or 240 ml serving of natural coconut water contains 60 calories, with carbs rarely over 15 grams. This relatively low carbohydrate component is helpful in satiating cravings and aids digestion. 

It also provides fullness and helps you control your hunger pangs. This helps the body break down nutrients faster and helps increase your metabolic rate.

Improves Blood Circulation

People struggling with diabetes often experience issues with blood circulation, often accompanied by muscle spasms, joint pains, and vision problems. Coconut water improves blood circulation in the body and can be helpful to deal with poor blood circulation.

Has Low Glycemic Index

With a GI (Glycemic index) score of 54, coconut water is one of the best drupes, especially for diabetes patients. It also contains very little sugar naturally so it is less likely to shoot up blood glucose levels in diabetics.

Contains Fibre

Fibres are an important part of our diets. Since coconut water has high dietary fibre (2.6 grams in one serving) it can aid the body in the digestion of sugar. The amino acids in the fibre help regulate blood sugar, improving the diabetic person's health.

Aids in Weight Loss

Obese people suffering from diabetes have it worse because of fluctuating weight and the issues that come with it. Since coconut water aids in digestion, people struggling with weight fluctuations can reduce their calorie intake without compromising taste or nutrients.

Packed with bio-active enzymes like acid dehydrogenase, diastase, phosphatase, etc., coconut water helps break down fat and aids in weight loss.

Can Coconut Water Raise Blood Sugar Levels?

The refreshing and sweet taste of coconut water can often give rise to this concern among weight-watchers and diabetics. A serving of 240 ml coconut water contains around 8 to 10 grams of sugar, which is a pretty low quantity if taken in moderation.

The problem arises when you take packaged coconut water. Most manufacturers selling these beverages add preservatives and sugar to enhance their taste. Compared to natural coconut water, packaged coconut water contains twice the among of sugar, which can spike your blood sugar levels.

Can Diabetic Patients Drink Coconut Water?

If you’re a diabetic, make sure to consume only fresh and naturally sweetened coconut water. Better yet, always consult your doctor or nutritionist before including it in your diet so that there are no side effects or allergies. 

Meanwhile, make sure you are protected under a comprehensive health insurance plan which covers diabetes. It will keep you safe from any related complications later.

Over to You,

Nature's sports beverage is one of the best sources of electrolytes, sugar and hydration. A lot of studies and research indicate the numerous benefits of coconut water for people struggling with diabetes. The drink is an excellent source of hydration and can do wonders for your overall health. Including this in your life along with a good health insurance policy will help you manage diabetes and anything else that may affect your well-being.