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10 Disadvantages Of Coconut Water You Should Be Aware Of

Watch out for the ill effects this tropical drink can have if consumed in excess.

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• Mar 11, 2024

10 Disadvantages Of Coconut Water You Should Be Aware Of

Image: Shutterstock

Coconut water is known as the ‘Magic Drink’ or ‘Nature’s Drink’ due to its countless health benefits. However, a few disadvantages of coconut water might make you reconsider consuming it.

Overconsumption of coconut water may lower your blood pressure, cause an electrolyte imbalance, or act as a laxative. Consequently, it is important to be aware of all the effects of overindulging in this beverage.

This article examines the side effects of coconut water. Take a look below.

Know The Flip Side: Coconut Water

Short-Term Effects
Diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and an irregular heartbeat,

Long-Term Effects
May lead to an increase in potassium levels in the blood, which can be dangerous for people with kidney problems.

Drug Interactions
May interact with antihypertensive drugs, which are taken to lower blood pressure.

When To See A Doctor
If you experience adverse effects such as sweating, nausea, and vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

In This Article

Disadvantages of Drinking Too Much Coconut Water

Close up of a piece of dry coconut and a bottle of coconut water

Image: Shutterstock

Drinking too much coconut water may cause several adverse effects. Melissa Hooper, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist, says, “The extra calories from the sugar could contribute to weight gain if they are not balanced out with other foods and drinks consumed throughout the day. The natural sugar content can also lead to dental caries if you are not diligent in brushing your teeth daily. Also, due to its natural sugar content, if you have diabetes, drinking excess coconut water could lead to increased blood sugar levels.”

1. May Lead To Diarrhea

Too much coconut water consumption can be dangerous. Drinking too much of it can have laxative effects on your digestive system (1). Since coconut water is a natural laxative, it might not be suitable for some people who have problems with their bowel movements. Hence, care should be taken before consuming a large amount of coconut water.

2. Is Not The Ideal Drink For Athletes

In case you prefer coconut water for getting rid of dehydration immediately post workout, then you rather drink plain water. Because the amount of sodium plain water contains is unarguably more than that present in coconut water. And hey, it is sodium that aids rehydration, right?

Also, when compared with certain sports energy drinks, coconut water is way low in carbohydrate content. Coconut water just contains one-tenth the sodium when compared with other sports drinks (2).

2. May Not Be Good For People Vulnerable To Allergies

Woman experiencing allergic reaction after drinking coconut water

Image: Shutterstock

Some of us do have allergies. We might be allergic to certain food items and ingredients and hence, we refrain from consuming them. Similarly, coconut water might cause allergic reactions in certain people who are allergic to it.

Coconut is basically a tree nut. Hence, certain people who consume coconut water might be prone to tree nut allergies as well as other forms of allergy. Coconut water should be kept away from people who are prone to allergies (3).

4. Possesses Diuretic Properties

This is another disadvantage when you consume too much coconut water. Coconut water has diuretic properties (1). This means too much of its consumption might require you to take a break and visit the loo a number of times. Although a mild amount of coconut water has hydrating properties, too much of its consumption can be unhealthy.

Melissa Hooper says, “Drinking coconut water at night could elevate blood sugar for people who have diabetes and increase urination, disturbing their sleep due to the constant need to make trips to the bathroom overnight.”

5. Might Cause Electrolyte Imbalance

Woman feeling dizzy due to electrolyte imabalance after drinking excessive coconut water

Image: Shutterstock

The high potassium content of coconut water is one reason it is a wonder drink. But then, the very same reason can make coconut water fatal if consumed in excess.

In a specific case, a man had spent an entire day playing tennis in 90 degree Fahrenheit weather. He happened to consume a whopping 88 ounces of coconut water, which resulted in a condition called hyperkalemia, eventually leading to a serious condition (4).

Hyperkalemia causes weakness and lightheadedness, and within minutes the victim might lose his consciousness.

6. May Increase Blood Sugar Levels In Some

Image: IStock

Coconut water may not fall under sugary drinks but still it does contain carbohydrates and calories. People with high blood sugar should not drink more than 1 glass a day. However, more research is warranted in this regard.

Also, going for immature green coconuts is better for those with diabetes than the matured ones.

7. May Lower Your Blood Pressure Too Much

Coconut water might lower your blood pressure (5). In case you are already taking medications for high blood pressure, it might cause your blood pressure to drop further down. Hence, remember to consult your healthcare provider in such a situation.

8. Might Affect Individuals With Kidney Issues

Those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are recommended to avoid intake of coconut water. The substantial potassium content in the water may cause hyperkalemia, a potentially fatal condition resulting from a high potassium intake in kidney patients (6). It may reduce ion excretion via the kidneys. It may also interfere with drugs used to slow the progression of CKD or those taken to manage its concomitant conditions, such as diabetes mellitus and heart failure. The likelihood of experiencing sudden death and irregularities in heartbeats also increases (7).

9. Might Cause Flaccid Paralysis

Excessive intake of king coconut water was reported to cause acute flaccid paralysis in an elderly patient. He experienced weakness in his limbs and was unable to walk. Closer inspection revealed kidney dysfunction and high potassium levels (8). Thus, although uncommon, coconut water may cause paralysis in some people.

10. Might Lead To Fatal 3-Nitropropionic Acid Poisoning

Coconuts may be contaminated with the fungus Arthrinium saccharicola, which may lead to life-threatening symptoms. An elderly patient from Denmark experienced sweating, nausea, and vomiting followed by a reduced mental state with confusion, dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions), and poor balance after consuming coconut water. He fell seriously ill, developed encephalopathy (reduction in brain functioning due to toxins), and went into a coma. Subsequently, the condition was shown to be caused by high 3-nitropropionic acid levels in coconut water caused by the fungal contamination. The coconut had been kept on the kitchen table for a month after being purchased, despite the fact that it should have been stored at 4°C to 5°C in the refrigerator (9). Thus, avoid such situations by properly storing your coconuts and coconut water.

If the patient had drunk the coconut water fresh, this situation might not have occurred. This brings us to a crucial aspect that needs to be noted by everyone: Coconut water is to be consumed fresh 10). It should ideally be consumed right after cutting the fruit open.

Image: Shutterstock

If it is left open for some time, it may lose some of its beneficial nutrients. Coconut water is a wonder drink, yes. It might have many benefits which are virtually absent in other drinks. And talking in terms of health, it probably is the most preferred drink.

Trivia

One coconut contains about 300ml of water. However, this may vary depending on the stage of maturity of the nut and its variety.

But that doesn’t mean you can become a sole survivor of coconut water, does it?

The downsides we mentioned might make you think twice but drinking coconut water in moderation can be good for your health. Learn its pros and cons below to know what’s best for you.

Pros And Cons Of Tender Coconut Water

Tender coconut water is a natural source of hydration and a refreshing drink. It is rich in electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals (1). Its low-calorie content makes it a favored option for those watching their weight. Anecdotal evidence indicates it may also improve one’s digestive health.

While research shows that the consumption of fresh coconut products can decrease blood glucose levels and body weight in normal, the naturally occurring sugars in coconut water may be a cause for concern for those monitoring their sugar intake, especially those who are diabetic (11). Also, it is not a budget-friendly choice for regular consumption.

All in all, the choice of drinking tender coconut water might hinge on your specific dietary needs.

Infographic: When To Avoid Coconut Water?

Coconut water is a refreshing drink. But there are some instances when it’s best to avoid drinking it. Due to its limited availability, short shelf life, and potential contamination, it might not be the perfect daily drink. It may even be expensive depending on your location. Also, coconut water might not go well with certain health issues, especially when it comes to your kidneys and heart.

Check out the below infographic to know when to avoid coconut water.

when to avoid coconut water (infographic)

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Trivia

It is often preferable to drink the liquid inside young coconuts over the liquid inside ripened coconuts. Young green coconut water is also called buko juice in Philippine English.

Coconut water is a refreshing, hydrating drink. However, if consumed in excess, it can lead to many adverse effects. These include electrolyte imbalances to elevated blood sugar levels. Its diuretic and laxative effects may also cause abdominal discomfort or urination difficulties. Coconut is closely related to tree nuts. Hence, it may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to them. Such individuals must exercise caution and avoid drinking coconut water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does coconut water increase sperm?

Melissa Hooper, RDN, says, “According to research, undiluted coconut water has been shown to increase sperm amount, quality, and motility with continuous consumption, at least for greater than 20 days. Increased sperm quality is due to the high amount of zinc that the coconut water has naturally. Zinc is essential in sperm formation, and therefore, consuming enough zinc will have a positive effect on sperm. Research also showed that coconut water didn’t disturb the pH of sperm, which helps to increase motility.”

Is drinking coconut water every day bad for you?

No, drinking coconut water every day in moderation is beneficial for your health.

How much coconut water per day is safe?

It is best to drink no more than 2-3 glasses of coconut water every day. Drinking above this limit can cause adverse effects.

What does coconut water taste like?

Natural coconut water has a mildly sweet taste with a hint of nuttiness.

How much potassium is in coconut water?

100 g of coconut water contains about 165 mg of potassium (12).

How many calories are in coconut water?

100 g of coconut water contains about 18 calories (12).

Does coconut water increase sperm count?

Some animal studies suggest that coconut water may improve sperm count and motility and reduce any associated abnormalities (13). However, more research on humans is warranted.

Is coconut good for fatty liver?

Research on the efficacy of coconut water in treating fatty liver is limited. However, some animal studies suggest that coconut oil may help reverse nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by improving good cholesterol levels (14).

Key Takeaways

Excess intake of coconut water may cause several side effects due to its high calorie and natural sugar values.
It can be harmful to people with kidney problems due to its high potassium levels.
The natural sugar content in this magic drink may not be suitable for people with high sugar content or those who are trying to limit their sugar intake.
It may be allergic to some individuals. Consultation with a doctor is advised in case of symptoms.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Uncover the lesser-known side of coconut water in a thought-provoking video. Explore the disadvantages that may surprise you, shedding light on the potential drawbacks of this popular beverage. Stay informed and make informed choices!

References

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