Research has shown that coconut water can lower blood sugar levels and improve other health markers – but so far the studies have only focussed on animals. In one study, diabetic rats treated with coconut water maintained better blood sugar levels than the control group. The same study also found that the rats given coconut water had lower levels of hemoglobin A1c, indicating good long-term blood sugar control. Nevertheless, the finding that it reduced cholesterol as effectively as a statin drug is very impressive and should lead to further research. Our Favourite Smoothies to mix with Coconut Water In another study, rats on a high-fructose diet were treated with coconut water. Free radical activity decreased, as did blood pressure, triglycerides and insulin levels – very interesting and encouraging. Bring on more research we say!

Each smoothie sachet is 140g, and after blending with 200ml liquid you will get a 12oz smoothie. That’s a standard UK size, the same as you’ll get in a café. We find it’s a large-ish portion for an adult, or two smaller portions for kids. Each smoothie has its own ‘nutritionals’ section – for example, see Pash n Shoot here – which gives you the calories per 100g and all the other info you might need.

The world’s most loved smoothies.

Almonds are naturally high in vitamin E, providing 37% of the daily requirement in just 28 grams – or one large handful. One cup of almond milk (240 ml) provides 20–50% of your daily vitamin E requirement, depending on the brand, as commercial varieties often add it during processing. As with soya milk, it’s low in calories and sugar and high in calcium and vit D, but interestingly it’s the Vit E content which sets it apart. Electrolytes are minerals that conduct an electrical charge when mixed with water. They help regulate a variety of your body’s most essential functions, including nerve signalling, pH balance, muscle contraction, and hydration – all vital functions involved in exercise and recovery.

Given its health benefits, it’s pretty obvious that coconut water is a great partner for all of our smoothie mixes. We love to mix it with our Coco Loco smoothie for a double whammy! Coconut water has soared in popularity recently, and it’s not hard to see why. Refreshing, nutritious and one of the healthiest options to add to our smoothie mixes (other than water itself!), this is definitely our top choice for health, particularly if you don’t like your smoothies too sweet. Health Benefits of Coconut WaterWhat is the best liquid to blend with your smoothies if you don’t want to use apple juice? Here’s a handy little guide to get you started. Our favourites are mixing Coco Loco + coconut water and Broccoli & the Beast + soya milk. Happy Blending! Coconut Water for Smoothies

Drinking enough fluids is important for kidney stone prevention. Although plain water is a great choice, one early study suggests that coconut water may be even better. It’s a powerful antioxidant that combats inflammation and stress in the body, helps protect against heart disease and cancer, and may also have beneficial effects on bone and eye health. Recent studies of Vit E have found that it improves mental performance and appears to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and slow its progression. Definitely worth a daily dose! Our Favourite Smoothies to Mix with Almond MilkCommercial mylks are typically fortified with added nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, both of which play a vital role in bone health, and vitamins B2 (also known as riboflavin) and B12, which are needed by the body to release energy from food, as well as helping to keep the nervous system healthy. With its good fibre content and and a digestible carb content of only 6 grams per 240ml, coconut water can easily fit into a meal plan for people with diabetes. It’s also a good source of magnesium, which may increase insulin sensitivity and decrease reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.