Loco For Coco Water

The coconut water craze is in full effect.

From grocery store displays pushing this "new" refreshing beverage to celebrities endorsing the stuff, it seems everyone has become loco for Coco.



Boasting benefits like preventing heart attacks and hypertension, curing hangovers, and replenishing electrolytes post-workout, Coconut Water seems like a miracle elixir.

But considering an 8 oz. serving has about 70 calories and up to 15 grams of sugar, is it really a good idea for us to be chugging this stuff like it's God's answer to apathy with plain agua?

I don't think so.

While I love the taste, I really can't justify dedicating my precious calories to something that's not going to fill me up.

I spoke to one famous trainer (who wished to remain anonymous due to endorsement deals), who told me the benefits of Coconut Water are not worth the weight gain.

"I say no to coconut water," the trainer told me. "The 80 calories of sugar a day adds up. That's 560 extra calories a week...2240 a month. That's almost 10 pounds a year! Not worth it."

Yikes! When you put it that way, it's a lot less appealing.

But nutritionists agree, it does have its place.

Women's Health contributor Keri Glassman R.D. tells me that Coconut Water is a great substitute for other sports drinks pre and post workout.

"Coconut Water is full of potassium and essential electrolytes to keep you healthy and energized," says Glassman. "Ideal for before or after workout, potassium not only stops and prevents muscle cramps, but also regulates blood pressure and helps you recover more quickly from exercise."

But just as our anonymous trainer said, because of the high sugar level, it shouldn't be an "all the time" beverage choice.

"Coconut Water could be considered 'nature's sport drink'," says Glassman. "However, it should not be substituted for water all day long."

So while some people are consuming this tropical treat by the truckload, it appears that the experts agree it should only be enjoyed on occasion.

Those on a strict new diet may even want to skip it in favor of a banana. Bananas provide you with potassium at a similar calorie count, but also fill you up when water might not.