Health benefits and in addition to being a refreshing drink, coconut water has a variety of nutritional and medicinal uses (1). Its use for athletic athletes is also gaining momentum. What is the right age to start for your baby?

In this MomJunction post, we tell you about the benefits of coconut water for babies, when you can start giving it, and the steps you need to take when introducing water.

Is Coconut Water Good for Children?

There is no research indicating the use of coconut water primarily for children. However, coconut water is rich in electrolytes, carbohydrates, and amino acids (3) and these nutrients are necessary for the growth of the baby.

When Can Babies Have Coconut Water?

You can add coconut water after the baby is six months old. Then the American Academy of Pediatrics states. That water can be added to a child’s diet as soon as they start consuming solids (4). However, put it in a spoon or two and check for side effects. Also, don’t introduce two new foods at a time.

Benefits of Coconut Water:

Coconut water can bring the following health benefits to children:

• A refreshing energy source: coconut water contains carbohydrates that help your baby replenish his daily nutrients.
• Provides hydration and electrolytes: coconut water contains potassium and sodium. It also contains minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese that are essential for bone growth and health (8). Coconut water can be used as a hydration drink during then the summer. It may also help restore electrolyte balance in infants with diarrhea (9).
• May improve digestion and absorption: several studies have shown that regular intake of coconut water can improve digestion and nutrient absorption (10). But it deserves further research.
• Rich in amino acids: coconut water is rich in amino acids such as alanine, arginine, selenium, and cysteine (11). Coconut water can be a healthy source of protein for growing babies.

Coconut water has many associated benefits. However, it is also important to know if there is a risk in giving your baby coconut water.

Health Benefits and Potential Dangers of Coconut Water for Babies:

Coconut can pose the following risks to your baby:

• Allergic reaction: an allergic reaction to oral coconut is rare (12). But the first time you give your baby coconut water, pay attention to any reactions. Be especially careful if your child already has other food allergies, such as allergies to peanuts and other nuts.
• Hyperkalemia: coconut water is rich in potassium. Giving a baby too much coconut water can cause a condition called hyperkalemia, which raises potassium levels in the blood (13). However, if you give your baby a normal amount of coconut water, such as water or other water, this is unlikely.

What to Do When Giving Your Baby Coconut Water and

Health Benefits:

Coconut water is naturally sterile. As the water penetrates, then shell and is filtered (10). Therefore, it is not necessary to boil coconut water before serving it to the baby. However, when giving, your baby coconut water, keep the following points in mind:

• Serve cold: use freshly extracted coconut water. If fresh coconut water is not available, you can choose packaged coconut water. However, check the date of manufacture and the presence of preservatives. Choose pure coconut water, not coconut water, and concentrate.
• Drink slowly: add a small amount of coconut water and then wait 1 or 2 days to check for allergies. If your baby is not allergic and appreciates the taste, you can give him coconut water regularly. Occasionally, foods cross over with other foods and may cause allergies. Therefore, be vigilant even if your baby shows no signs at first.
• Avoid preserved coconut water: avoid storing fresh coconut water in the refrigerator for future use, as storing it may change its taste and nutritional value. Packaged coconut water can be stored for 1 hour after opening the bottle. However, it is best not to feed the baby packaged coconut water. That has been opened and stored.