Here's Why You Should Drink Coconut Water During Pregnancy

There are extensive lists of good and bad foods for pregnancy out there, and your doctor will always give you clear dos and don'ts. Isn't it the worst when something you love shows up on the "bad" list and you have to feel deprived of it for nine whole months? But sometimes your favorite foods show up on the good list, and if you happen to be a fan of the tropical, sweet, refreshing taste of coconut water, you're in luck! It's not only healthy for the average person, but it's a particularly good idea if you're pregnant. 

Pregnancy can be magical, but it can also be exhausting. Pregnant people can often experience symptoms of dehydration and fatigue, thanks to all the changes happening to their bodies at such a fast rate. People who are pregnant also need more water than they normally do, because of higher-than-usual water absorption and the developing fetus' need for hydration (via Style Craze). Keeping well-hydrated is a great way to help yourself feel a little better when you're expecting, and coconut water is an ideal choice to quench your thirst for multiple reasons. 

Interestingly, coconut water has the exact same electrolyte balance that we have in our blood, which makes it an ideal re-hydrator (rather than sports drinks that have more sugar and sometimes more salt or potassium than might be ideal). It's also full of essential vitamins and minerals and other nutrients (via Style Craze). Just one cup of coconut water will give you 9 grams of carbs, 3 grams of fiber, 2 grams of protein, and the following percentages of the recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals: 10 percent of vitamin C, 15 percent of magnesium, 17 percent of manganese, 17 percent of potassium, 11 percent of sodium, and 6 percent of calcium (via Healthline).   

It also boasts some impressive health benefits beyond basic nutrition and hydration. Studies have shown that coconut water may have strong antioxidant properties, which means it could help to reduce free radicals and oxidative stress in your body. It may also help protect against kidney stones, diabetes, and high blood pressure, while supporting heart health and even fighting headaches.  Coconut water also help combat constipation, which is something pregnancy can cause (via Healthline). 

So next time you're looking for a refreshing, hydrating drink with a host of health benefits, pregnant or not, reach for some coconut water.