Coconut Water

[danisala]

I'm just curious: recently I have been adding coconut water (about 8oz) to my post-workout protein shakes. I keep hearing/reading of all the benefits that coconut water provides. My question is: how much better is using coconut water, over regular water or skim milk, in my protein shakes?

Background info: The only exercise I do for now is CrossFit 3 days a week, the protein powder that I use is BPI Whey HD (later will be transferring to Muscle Milk powder).

Thank you for your help!

[Mrthekla]

Coconut water adds sodium and a lot of potassium without many carbs. Other than that, it's basic hydration. 

WebMD has some detalied information... http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/truth-about-coconut-water 

Long story made short, nothing wrong with it. Probably better than a sports drink (fewer calories, less processed). But there are other ways.  

Nothing wrong with what you are doing. You could mix it up based on what you need to round out your diet. For example, if I've been eating mostly fat free a few days, I'll add milk (coconut, almond or 2%) to get some fat into my protein shake. If I've had plenty of fatty food, I'll stick to wateror coconut water depending on the flavor i'm craving.

[too_spicy]

Depends on your goals.

If you're going for muscle gain or increased protein intake, skim milk (I would even say whole milk) is gonna be your best bet. 

Water is obviously going to be your cheapest option as long as you're not using bottled.

Coconut water has a lot of electrolytes to rehydrate you post-workout, as well as some (but not many) sugars to replenish glycogen. 

You just need to decide what's most important for you as an athlete.