You've probably heard of coconut water before. It's that hydrating, low-calorie drink that all the health magazines and weight loss experts are crazy about. But while coconut water has had a good run, it looks like its days at the top of the health food charts are numbered. There's a new water in town, and it's poised to be more popular and more nutritious than ever.
It's called birch water and it's made from the sap of birch trees. That sap is extracted and processed in the early months of spring, turned into drinkable water and sent to health food stores across the world. But why is birch water so great? And why should it replace your beloved coconut water? Let's take a look at this unique liquid now.
Read more ¿Qué más?: Combine these 2 foods to lose weight even FASTER
The health benefits of birch water: Birch water is chock full of antioxidants, amino acids and electrolytes, and it contains numerous minerals and vitamins, including potassium, calcium, zinc, copper and more. These are crucial to strong healthy bodies, as well as our immune, circulatory and skeletal systems.
It might sound crazy, but birch water can even help reduce your cholesterol. This is thanks to the saponins (a kind of chemical compound) found in the tree's sap.
Similar to coconut water, birch water is a great at detoxing your body and flushing out waste and toxins from your system. It's also extremely hydrating, which is perfect to take with you to your workout sessions.
Though few studies have been done, birch water is thought to help treat adverse health conditions like diarrhea, flu, eczema, liver disease and more. It's actually been used for centuries in Europe and China, as well as other areas across the world for natural healing purposes. In some populations, it's even referred to as the "tree of life."
How to use birch water: You can use birch water in a number of ways. First, you can simply drink it as a regular beverage. Bring some to the gym, pack a bottle for work or just have some while relaxing at home. You can also use it as a great base for a green smoothie, or you can work it into your steel cut oats, rice or other meals that require liquids.
Plus, because birch water contains xylitol, a compound found in tree bark, it has a naturally sweet taste. This means you can use it to sweeten soups, sauces, and other foods without adding any harmful sugar or additives.
Some companies are even coming out with ways you can use birch water on your skin and cellulite-prone areas. No word on whether these products actually work or not, but if they're anything like the birch water beverage, they should be worth a try.
If you've been addicted to coconut water, why not give birch water a whirl? You can typically find it in the same section at your local health food store. Just make sure to avoid ones with an added flavorings or sugars, as these can negate the health benefits of the drink. ~
Remember to share this article with all the people that you love, so that they can also benefit from the great properties birch water has to offer. Together we can make this world a happier, healthier world!
Image via Corbis
