As one coconut enthusiast noted, pressed coconut water tastes more like the fresh coconut water that you would drink directly from the fruit. Nutritional Difference Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside a coconut that has been broken open. Fresh coconut water can be consumed directly from the fruit. Coconut water may be the perfect beverage for restoring hydration and replenishing electrolytes lost during exercise. Both types of coconut water are also a great addition to smoothies. The coconut notes give a tropical feel to your drinkable breakfast.

After 45 days, the coconut water group had a reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels similar to the effects of a statin drug used to lower cholesterol ( 17).Coconut water typically comes from young coconuts about 6–7 months of age, though it’s also found in mature fruit. An average green coconut provides about 1/2–1 cup of coconut water. Another area where there’s quite a noticeable difference between the two varieties of tropical beverage is in how they taste. Vita Coco also sells flavored pressed coconut water in a variety of flavors like pineapple, strawberry banana, and mango. Coconut water has a very mild flavor on its own, so when it’s combined with other flavors it can change its taste drastically. Coconut water also has a modest amount of other electrolytes, like Calcium (6% of RDA per 16 ounce serving) and Magnesium (8% of RDA per 16 ounce serving.) However, as you’ll see momentarily, the nutrition contents can differ in pressed coconut water vs regular. Varieties

As you might’ve guessed, pressed coconut water is made by pressing the entire coconut, producing a creamy drink. It comes as no surprise that pressed coconut water tends to have slightly more calories than regular coconut water, largely due to the small bits of coconut meat that end up in this drink. Generally, pressed coconut water is what you’ll find in your local convenience or corner store in those rectangular cardboard containers. Pressed coconut water nutritional facts There are many different types of stones,” says Smith. “But if your physician recommends you get more potassium into your diet, coconut water could be beneficial.” Healthier skin A 2005 study suggests that coconut water may also be beneficial for lowering blood pressure in individuals living with high blood pressure, but more research needs to be done in that area ( 18).

Kalman DS, et al. Comparison of coconut water and a carbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink on measures of hydration and physical performance in exercise-trained men. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2012; doi:10.1186/1550-2783-9-1. However, pressed coconut water is a tiny bit chunky or grainy due to the use of the entire fruit and the inclusion of small bits of coconut flesh in the drink. If you want to start sipping this tropical drink, there should be an array of brands on the shelves of your local grocery store — just be sure to avoid products with added sugar. But Smith cautions that those studies use coconut water that is enriched with sodium, which may not be a great choice for most people and should be reserved for those who work out for an hour or more. “It can be helpful doing long exercise sessions,” says Smith. “However, the electrolytes vary in coconut water. A sports drink is a more reliable bet for these situations.” So, though their colors are similar, the process of making pressed coconut water or coconut milk sets them apart from one another.

Coconut water may also aid in the fight against acne due to its antimicrobial properties, suggests a preliminary 2017 study. Research also shows that consuming coconut water may help your antioxidant system by neutralizing the effects of free radicals. Tips for drinking coconut water In a study from 2018 that involved eight people, researchers found that coconut water increased the urination of potassium, chloride, and citrate in individuals without kidney stones, meaning coconut water might help flush out the system and keep the likelihood of stones low ( 15). The difference in appearance in pressed coconut water vs regular coconut water is so pronounced that they look like different beverages entirely. One looks like something you’d drink to hydrate yourself when thirsty, and the other looks like something you’d put in your cereal. Difference In Taste Regular coconut water is better suited for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who prioritize hydration and electrolyte replenishment over taste. It would also be the wiser choice for anyone seeking to manage their weight, due to the reduced caloric and fat contents when compared to pressed coconut water. However, as previously discussed, the nutritional disparities between the two are minimal, and the added fat calories are relatively insignificant within the context of the RDA.Despite the difference in flavor, the difference in nutritional content isn’t as vast. The flavored varieties do tend to be higher in calories, which appears to be mostly because of added sugars. And when it comes to pressed coconut water, added fat as well. Pressed Coconut Water Although more controlled studies involving humans are needed to confirm many of these qualities, the research to date is encouraging. Preliminary research indicates that coconut water may lower blood pressure in those with high blood pressure. However, if you are on blood pressure medication, it may be best to avoid coconut water as it could lower it too much. It’s best to discuss this with your doctor.