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Coconut water is classified as a natural hydration drink that has a high dose of electrolytes. But is the drink actually better than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended oral rehydration salts, or ORS? The comparison between the two hydrating drinks depends on the hydration needs of the individual consuming them. If you require complete hydration, then you need to consume ORS, but if regular baseline hydration needs to be maintained, then coconut water can suffice. The Foods Journal has suggested that coconut water contains potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, amino acids, and antioxidants. It also has benefits related to heart health and is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. These functional health benefits make coconut water a natural hydration beverage. On the other hand, ORS is the first line of treatment for mild to moderate dehydration caused by diarrhoea and vomiting.
What Is ORS?
The WHO has scientifically formulated this solution and has designed it to replenish the fluids and electrolytes that are lost during dehydration. Especially from diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or excessive sweating, ORS needs to be recommended. The WHO has made ORS medically graded to help people prevent health complications such as kidney injury and shock. ORS is also behind preventing deaths that may occur due to diarrhoea in children worldwide.
What Makes Coconut Water A Popular Hydration Drink?
The Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International documents state that coconut water is a natural beverage that contains important minerals such as potassium, chloride, natural sugars, and other minerals that make it a hydrating drink. When it comes to the exact nutrient composition, the nutritional profile of coconut water contains varying amounts, as packaged versions have less mineral content than fresh coconut water.
Nutritional Profile Of Coconut Water
Note: Consider drinking fresh coconut water, as the packaged versions can have added sugars, additives, and other ingredients that are used to prolong the shelf life of the drink.
Coconut Water vs ORS: What's The Difference?
When it comes to coconut water and ORS, their difference depends on the exact level of electrolytes and their effectiveness in hydration.
Electrolyte Comparison
The exact level of electrolytes in ORS is a higher amount of sodium, a balanced glucose-electrolyte ratio, and a design for rapid hydration.
Coconut water contains potassium and has low sodium content, and is available naturally.
Hydration Effectiveness
The exact hydration effectiveness depends on the sodium levels needed for dehydration. When your body is dehydrated, then simple potassium is not enough to replenish the loss of salts; you need the right composition for complete hydration.
Is Coconut Water Better Than ORS?
No, as coconut water is a natural beverage that does have limitations and is suitable for healthy people. But those who need something to treat their dehydration need ORS for the precise balance of sodium, glucose, and electrolytes.
When Coconut Water May Be Helpful
Coconut water could be particularly helpful during certain activities, as it meets hydration needs. These particular situations are as follows:
- After mild exercise
- During hot weather
- For everyday hydration
- When appetite is low
When ORS Is The Better Choice
ORS can provide precise treatment for health conditions wherein the body undergoes too much water loss and needs active replenishment from glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, and citrate.
Diarrhea
During diarrhea, ORS can be used as a treatment option, as it can replace lost fluids and electrolytes and reduce dehydration-related complications.
Vomiting
ORS contains a precise sodium-glucose composition that can improve intestinal water absorption and help restore hydration.
Food Poisoning
Life-threatening dehydration can be avoided if you consume ORS, as it can replace large fluid losses.
Note: The WHO formulated the ORS solution for cholera treatment and maintained it as a cornerstone of necessary treatment for dehydration.
Can Coconut Water Replace ORS During Diarrhea?
No, as coconut water contains a natural composition of electrolytes that can't replace fluid loss from diarrhoea. ORS remains the medically safe solution for diarrhoea and needs to be used in its exact dose in the frequency prescribed on the packet for maximum impact.
Does Coconut Water Have Any Advantages Over ORS?
Yes, it does, as coconut water has naturally occurring components that make it a must-have daily beverage. Here are the advantages that it has for those who are otherwise healthy:
- Natural beverage
- Pleasant taste
- Rich in potassium
- May encourage fluid intake
Who Should Be Careful With Coconut Water?
Coconut water should be carefully consumed by those who have been diagnosed with medical conditions that prevent mineral salt filtration. Especially individuals with:
- Kidney disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Hyperkalaemia
- Potassium restrictions
Coconut water and ORS serve their individual purposes, and their dose should be exact for their desired health impact. Do not consume either drink in excess, as they can lead to side effects.
Also Read: Can Daily ORS Consumption Harm Your Health? Here's What Doctors Say
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.