I have a son who is sports mad, and is on the go constantly from pitch to pitch.   He is always looking for sports drinks and isotonic drinks, which I am reluctant to buy because of the high sugar content, and the high level of artificial colours, flavouring etc. I have been on the lookout for something more natural, which will still give him the energy burst he needs.

In London recently I was in Whole Foods Market (great food shop, with a branch in Soho, if you happen to be visiting) and the drinks fridge there was full of coconut water.   I did a bit of research and found out the following....

Coconut water is the liquid from young unripe coconuts before the flesh begins to form. Coconut water has long been revered as a health drink. It is loaded with the five essential electrolytes that athletes need-- including sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorous.

It's also naturally fat free. And one 11 oz serving has double the potassium of a banana and 15 times the amount of potassium that the top selling sports drink- about 700mg of potassium. The electrolytes help keep the body cool, boost poor circulation, and replenish the fluids you lose during exercise. It is known to also aid in the detoxification process while boosting your immune system.

It is cholesterol free and can soothe an upset stomach and help promote weight loss. On a side note, it is also known as a great hangover cure due to the fact that it re-hydrates so well.  There are no added artificial sweeteners or added refined sugar of any kind.

Sounds great!   We have been able to source VitaCoco coconut water in 330ml cartons.  There is a plain version and an acai and pomegranate version.   I find it refreshing and tasty, but you do need to like the taste of coconut.  It retails at 2 Euros, and is in the fridge in the middle of the shop with the juices.   Any feedback appreciated, now to convince my son that it is so much nicer than the artificial sports drinks.......