Looking for a natural, low-sugar alternative to processed energy drinks? Look no further than the humble coconut.

Barely processed, containing no refined sugars, and only one ingredient on its ingredient list, coconut water was the world’s first “Gatorade” — before we got tricked into thinking that sugary “energy” drinks were the only way to go to replenish after intense physical activity.

And with the food industry’s carbon emissions stemming primarily from processing and packaging, this “whole food” is a great choice for the earth with virtually zero processing and mostly eco-friendly Tetra Pack packaging.

A Superfood

Coconut water is naturally filled with electrolytes - the same compounds that Gatorade and other sports drinks advertise will get you hydrated and re-energized after a tough workout (or after a tough hangover!). And those same electrolytes also work to enhance performance, making coconut water a smart pre-exercise choice if you’re looking to increase endurance and stamina during your workout.

Coconut water is a superfood filled with essential minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids to keep us energized. But unlike commercial sports drinks, coconut water is low in sugar and high in nutrients. Learn how sugar can affect your health.

Low in Calories, High in Digestive Qualities

Coconut water can improve digestion by helping our intestines function properly. Its powerful nutrients also help give us glowing skin. And another one of coconut water’s biggest health benefits? It’s been found to help lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation.

While coconut water contains lauric acid (a naturally fatty acid found in mother’s milk that helps keep things running properly in our intestinal system), it’s actually naturally low in fat and low in calories.

Easy on the Earth

The EPA estimates that the food industry produces more than 24 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions, a large portion of which comes from processing and packaging.  Since coconut water comes in a Tetra Pak, it has a really long shelf life. And recyclable Tetra Paks further promote coconut water’s eco-friendly status by requiring five times less energy to produce than plastic packaging.  They also contain less packaging in relation to the liquid they’re protecting. The Tetra Pak’s combination of light-weight, efficient packaging also means less fuel is necessary to transport them.

Lastly, since 100% coconut water requires virtually no processing, selecting coconut water in lieu of sports drinks helps cut down those emissions even more. Learn more on the benefits of choosing unprocessed foods.

Which to Choose?

These days, coconut water is popping up everywhere. It’s a growing market with at least four popular brands showing up on shelves. But if all of the brands contain only 100% coconut water, is one better than the other?

Not really. While some have very slight variations in calories, natural sugars, and electrolyte levels, the differences aren’t large enough to make any noticeable health difference. What it really comes down to is personal taste: while they all come from Brazilian coconuts, the waters do vary in flavor.

Some are a little sweeter than others, and others seem to have almost a slight pineapple-like tang to them. So go with the brand that tastes best to you. And remember, it’s a delicious beverage that’s best served chilled.

When you’re shopping for your favorite coconut water at the store, look for 100% pure coconut water - no sugar or additives thrown in - for the biggest health benefits.  Following are a few of the brands with 100% pure coconut water:

Vita Coco: Natural, Açaí -Pomegranate, Passion Fruit, Peach-Mango, Pineapple, and Tangerine
O.N.E. (One Natural Experience)
ZICO: Natural,  Passion Fruit, and Mango