Consuming Tender Coconut Water During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most lovely phase a woman experiences. Making the most of this journey to ensure a healthy baby is every going-to-be mother's aim. This being the case, it is natural to ponder about each and everything you will consume. One such drink is tender coconut water. Many questions arise as to whether it is safe to consume tender coconut water now? If yes, what time of the day to consume it? What are the benefits? Should I combine the drink with anything else? And so on... Here I am going to clear the air and help you decide for yourself about coconut water consumption.

Safe or not?

First things first. Tender coconut is an absolutely beneficial item for every individual as it is rich in minerals and vitamins. It is loaded with health benefits. But is it safe for you as a pregnant woman to take it? I wouldn't say a direct 'Yes'. There are things to consider and let us look into that in detail.

Benefits

• Keeps you hydrated and helps in cooling your system
• Natural source of vitamins and minerals
  
• Helps combat electrolyte deficiency. Electrolyte requirement is high in pregnant women
• Maintains uric acid levels in your body and protects you against urinary tract infection

When can I consume this drink?

Absorption of nutrients by your body from any food item is at it maximum in an empty stomach condition. It is advisable to drink coconut water first thing in the morning. However, if you have a craving for aerated drinks during the day, spare yourself from this habit for a few months and grab a tender coconut instead of that aerated tin!

Is canned coconut water good for you?

Benefits of tender coconut water is obtained fully by your body if consumed immediately after opening the tender coconut. I see absolutely no necessity why someone would buy canned tender coconut water if abundant natural sources are available around us. Canned foods are always a big no unless the produce is not easily available around you. Say no to canned coconut water. Reach out for the fresh ones and reap the benefits of it. If you are unable to buy them fresh on a daily basis, you can always ask the seller to cut open the tender coconut partially in such a way that it can be easily opened by you later.

Coconut water with rock candy

After my doctor advised me to consume this drink daily, I used to have it first thing in the morning. A friend of mine suggested I add a small piece of rock candy (kallu sakkare in kannada, kalakanda in telugu). Once it dissolves in the coconut water, I used to consume it. This, I was told will help keep the body cool and also help in a fair complexion of the baby. Since I did not see any harm in it, I have consumed it this way. I do not however feel the complexion part of it is true in any way! If you want to try having coconut water with rock candy, get a go-ahead from your doctor before you start consuming.

Having given a clear picture, it is important for me to mention that water intake is utmost important to keep you hydrated all day long. Will tender coconut water alone give you all the minerals and vitamins your body needs during pregnancy? Definitely No! Maintaining a proper diet is very important and only this will help you balance all nutrients required by your body during your pregnancy and forever.