August 23/Tampa, Fla./American Chemical Society -- New research has been presented at a recent meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) that indicates coconut water may be one of the best sports drinks. The study, submitted by Chhandashri Bhattacharya, reveals that the high level of potassium in this type of drink is beneficial for the heart. Coconut water also contains antioxidants but tends to have lower levels of sodium than other sports beverages.
Researchers have found that coconut water contains similar levels of carbohydrates as other sports drinks. A comparison to Gatorade and Powerade has also shown that coconut water has higher levels of potassium. However, sodium levels are lower in coconut water. The study points out that the liquid must come from a fresh or green coconut. Coconut milk cannot be used as a substitute. Previous research has shown that coconut milk has high levels of fat.