Apart from being a cooling and refreshing drink, coconut water has different medicinal and nutritional benefits. People of all ages love to have to drink to freshen up themselves and keep themselves hydrated in the summer season. With such amazing general uses, it is safe for babies?
In today’s Mama and Peaches post, we will let you know about the nutritional value of coconut water, whether it’s safe for your little one and if yes then what are its advantages for babies.
Let us first begin with knowing how nutritious coconut water is:
The Nutritional Value of Coconut Water (100g)
These are the following nutrients in 100-gram coconut water:
- Water: 94.99g
- Energy: 19Kcal
- Total Sugars: 2.61g
- Calcium: 24mg
- Magnesium: 25mg
- Phosphorus: 20mg
- Potassium: 250mg
- Sodium: 105mg
For babies, there are different Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) of the above nutrients from coconut water.
Now, let’s move further whether it’s good for babies or not.
Is Coconut Water Beneficial for Babies?
The U.S. National Institutes of Health believes that coconut water is absolutely safe for babies in general. Till now, there is no specific research that underlines the use of coconut water particularly for children. However, coconut water is a rich source of amino acid, electrolytes, and carbohydrates. These are all essential nutrients for a baby’s growth.
Benefits of Coconut Water
Coconut water reveals the following benefits to your babies:
- Stimulating source of energy
Coconut water is enriched with carbohydrates that meet your baby’s daily intake of this specific nutrient. It is beneficial for keeping them active and energetic.
- Electrolyte-enriched and Hydrating
Coconut water includes sodium & potassium along with minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorous. In summer months, coconut water works as a rehydration drink. Due to the presence of electrolyte in a good amount, it’s advantageous to maintain electrolyte balance in babies who often suffer from diarrhoea.
- May help in improving digestion and nutrient absorption
Some research has highlighted that daily consumption of coconut water might help in better digestion as well as absorption of nutrients. However, this point needs more research.
- Packed with amino acids
Amino acids such as arginine, alanine, cysteine, and serene are found in coconut water. For a growing baby, it is a healthy drink.
- Immunity Booster
Coconut water becomes even more nutritious for babies due to the existence of lauric acid which is present in breast milk. This works as an excellent immunity booster in babies and toddlers.
Conclusion
Coconut water has multiple advantages tagged to it. But you should consult your paediatrician for the daily recommended intake of coconut water as too much of anything is harmful.
