Mint, Cucumber & Coconut Water Refresher

Photos By Above The Salt

Did you know eight ounces of coconut water amounts to only 45 to 60 calories, and is chalked full of natural electrolytes such as sodium, manganese, and potassium?  Because it is low in sugar and calories, coconut water is a tasty alternative to water.

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Benefits Of Coconut Water:

Provides Hydration

Pure in form it can deliver the benefits without undesirable ingredients, so offering energy and hydration without the calories.

Disperses Headaches and Migraines

Dehydration is said to be one of the causes of headaches and migraines. Coconut water helps alleviate this potential, while delivering a boost of magnesium that many experts theorize that a deficiency in is a cause of migraines.

Balances Blood Sugar

This unique water is also a good source of magnesium, as we mentioned above, which can increase insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics.

Can Reduce Hypertension

This tasty drink contains potassium but also has lower levels of sodium than most sports drinks. A study in the West Indian Medical Journal in 2005 indicated that drinking coconut water had a big impact on blood pressure, but more research is needed in this area.

Aids in Weight Reduction

Coconut water is a healthy, low-calorie alternative to fruit juices and sodas. People who are trying to lose weight can benefit from swapping water for these high-calorie, high sugar alternatives. One cup has between 45 and 60 calories, while a 12-ounce can of soda has up to 180.

RECIPE

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients
  • 4 C (1L) coconut  
  •  1/2 C (125 ml)  chopped mini cucumber
  • 1/2 C (125 ml) chopped fresh mint
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) lime zest
  • 1/2 C (125 ml) fresh lime juice. 
Instructions
  1. Mix the coconut water, cucumber, mint, lime zest and juice in blender.
  2. Blend for 30 seconds to 1 minute until almost well combined but still has some visible cucumber and mint flecks.
  3. Shake the mixture well, fill glass with ice, and top with coconut water, cucumber, mint mixture.
  4. Drink can be kept in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Option: Garnish with mini cucumber wheels or curls and/or fresh mint

Publisher’s Note: Carol Dudar is a Toronto based recipe developer and food stylist.

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