The best substitutes for coconut water are maple, watermelon, aloe and birch water, but there are loads of other options you can go for. Keep reading to know them all!
Anyone who knows me knows I’m obsessed with staying hydrated and healthy. Exactly why coconut water has been one of my go-to drinks for such a long time.
It’s got this refreshing taste and satisfying feel I just can’t help but love.
Unfortunately, there are times when I’m all out or just can’t get my hands on some and that’s when I started looking for alternatives.
After scouring the grocery store and trying out countless options, I finally found a couple of amazing coconut water substitutes that are just as refreshing and nutritious!
So, I’m going to be sharing my very favorite coconut water substitutes that you can try.
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What is a coconut water substitute?
I’d say a good coconut water substitute would be any similar drink that can replace coconut water and provide similar benefits.
Since coconut water is known for its hydrating properties, sweet flavor and high levels of potassium, magnesium as well as many other minerals, its alternatives should have a similar nutrient profile, taste and benefits.
Coconut water substitutes
- Watermelon water
The super tasty and hydrating watermelon water is the first contender on my list.
Other than the fact it’s naturally pinkish in colour, Watermelon water is nearly identical to coconut water in terms of its quality. It’s sweet and loaded with vitamins as well as other minerals and electrolytes, making it a great post-workout drink just like coconut water is.
- Cucumber water
Cucumber water is one of the best substitutes for coconut water for several reasons. Not only is it equally as refreshing and hydrating as coconut water (especially when it’s chilly!), but it’s also filled with loads of antioxidants. It also provides a range of health benefits and is an easy-to-make alternative to coconut water.
- Green coconut water
Green coconut water is the water inside young, green coconuts that aren’t fully developed yet. It’s a great source of hydration and has got a nutrient profile that’s very similar to that of coconut water. Green coconut water is also super rich in potassium, magnesium, and other minerals that can improve your health.
- Birch water
Harvested during the early spring, birch water is the sap from birch trees. It’s clear and odorless with a mild nectary sweet and nutty flavor many would describe as “earthy”. It’s subtle taste and unique flavor means it works well as a substitute for coconut water as well as offering several health benefits, like being a great source of antioxidants, just like coconut water is!
- Maple water
Similar to birch water, Maple water is a sweet-tasting liquid that’s tapped from maple trees. It’s got a really subtle flavor like coconut water and usually this slightly off-white or clear color. Maple water is high in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, and has a low glycemic index, making it a great option for diabetics.
- Aloe vera juice
I know what you’re thinking, but hear me out.
Even though aloe vera juice might not be the first that pops into your mind, it’s still one of the best coconut water substitutes out there. It has similar properties being that it’s also super hydrating and has loads of nutrients, just like coconut water, even though their tastes might not be exact.
Coconut water substitutes FAQS
One thing I absolutely love about coconut water is the subtly sweet and salty but nutty flavor it’s got. It’s for that very reason I like to savor it whenever I have a cup of coconut water, just to let it linger in my mouth so I can enjoy its wonderfully refreshing taste!
Plain water would work well in a smoothie as an alternative to coconut water. You have to keep in mind though, you might be missing out on some of the sweet flavor and health benefits of coconut water you could add to the smoothie.
There are loads of health benefits associated with coconut water such as its potential to help promote kidney health, lower blood sugar levels for people living with diabetes, being a great natural source of electrolytes and other minerals as well as support heart health.
Those, along with the fact that it’s a super healthy alternative to bottled and canned refreshments that serve as sports drinks, are some reasons doctors recommend coconut water.
Some specialists reckon cactus water and even regular water are better than coconut water for several reasons. They cite that the lesser number of calories and natural sugars contained in cactus water as well as regular water makes them better sources of hydration.
Coconut water and coconut milk are so vastly different that you can’t swap coconut milk with water. Coconut milk has got this creamy flavor, amino acids and loads of oil content that just isn’t present in coconut water. Plus, it’s much higher in calories and when it comes to recipes that call for coconut milk, coconut water just won’t cut it.
BOTTOM LINE: having a coconut water substitute handy is the perfect way to stay hydrated when you haven’t got access to coconut water. From aloe vera juice to watermelon water, cucumber water to maple and green coconut water, there are so many flavourful and refreshing alternatives to coconut water out there. So, the very next time you run out of some coconut water, try any of these alternatives instead!
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