Ever since I found out that coconut water is packed with healing properties and can be used to prevent UTIs, I have started to feed Baby C with it. However, I am still doubtful if it’s save for a toddler to drink too much coconut water since the Chinese old wives would say that it is too cooling for the body. I did a google search and found this article from BabyCenter :

Tender coconut water (elaneer / nariyal pani) is one of the richest sources of electrolytes. It is high in chlorides, potassium, and magnesium and has a moderate amount of sugar, sodium and protein. Coconut water is also a good source of dietary fibre, manganese, calcium, riboflavin and Vitamin C.

Coconut water relieves exhaustion by replenishing the natural salts lost by the body. It is ideal for children to prevent dehydration when they suffer from diarrhoea. In the hot summer months, when your toddler is thirsty, coconut water is so much more preferable than the empty calories of packaged fruit juices and aerated drinks. It is naturally sterile so it is perfect for children while travelling since you don’t have to worry about contamination.

Coconut water is a natural diuretic and hence increases the flow of urine; this helps prevent urinary tract infections and cools the body. Coconut water also helps relieve constipation, improves intestinal function and promotes digestive health. It may also help infants suffering from intestinal problems.

Coconut water contains high levels of lauric acid which is what is used by the body to make monolaurin — a disease fighting fatty acid derivative. Babies make monolaurin from the lauric acid in their mother’s breast milk so coconut water is recommended for nursing mothers. Lauric acid has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties which protect young children against various infections.

Coconut water is a nourishing beverage and very suitable for children of all ages.