The nutritional evolution: from green to brown
Divya Gopal, consultant, clinical dietetics, Apollo Medical Center, Koramangala, Bengaluru, shared insights with HT Lifestyle on how the maturation of a coconut changes its nutritional DNA — and why your choice matters. As a coconut matures from green to brown, it undergoes significant metabolic changes. Divya noted that while both are hydrating, their profiles shift in several key ways:
⦿ Sugar content: Natural sugars increase as the fruit ages. Green coconut water is ‘metabolically lighter’, whereas brown coconut water is denser and tastes significantly sweeter.
⦿ Electrolyte balance: Immature green coconuts are high in potassium. As they turn brown, the sodium concentration actually decreases further while potassium remains high.
⦿ Bioactive compounds: Green coconuts generally boast higher levels of amino acids and cytokines (bioactive compounds), though this can vary by individual fruit.
⦿ Micronutrients: While both contain vitamins, vitamin C levels tend to drop as the coconut matures.
By the numbers: calories and sugar
For those tracking their intake, the differences in density are clear. “Green coconut water contains approximately 18-20 calories per 100 ml serving, and brown coconut water contains approximately 22-25 calories per 100 ml serving,” Divya said.
“In addition, although the glucose and fructose content increases with the maturity of the fruit, the difference in the two varieties is not dramatic, since the average total of sugars in green coconut water equals approximately 5 g/100 ml, whereas in brown coconut water this amount equals approximately 18 g/100 ml,” she further shared.
The verdict: which should you choose?
⦿ The case for green: Divya recommended green coconut water for general hydration. “Green coconut water has lower levels of sugar… making it more enjoyable to drink in larger quantities,” she explained. It is lighter in consistency and better suited for regular, energising hydration, she added.
⦿ The case for brown: Brown coconut water acts more like a ‘natural energy drink’ due to its higher carbohydrate concentration. However, Divya warned that the majority of the population should only consume mature coconut water occasionally. “Healthy children should consume only small amounts of mature coconut water due to the greater sugar content,” she advised, adding that the elderly generally tolerate the lighter green variety better.
Important caveats: not a ‘water replacement’
Despite its benefits, Divya was quick to dispel the myth that coconut water should replace plain H2O:
⦿ Not a sports drink: While great for light exercise, coconut water lacks the sodium required to replenish the body after high-intensity endurance workouts.
⦿ Not a medical rehydration solution: It is not a substitute for ORS (oral rehydration solution) in clinical dehydration cases.
⦿ Kidney and dietary restrictions: Those on potassium-restricted diets or living with kidney disorders should limit intake to half that of a healthy adult.
⦿ Digestive sensitivity: If you have IBS or a sensitive stomach, the high potassium and fermentable carbohydrates — especially in the concentrated brown variety — can cause discomfort.
Final verdict? Coconut water is a functional beverage, not a daily staple. “Regular consumption… is unnecessary and may result in excess potassium consumption and an undesired increase in calories,” Divya concluded.
According to her, whether you choose green or brown, enjoy it as an occasional treat during hot weather or while recovering from mild illness, but keep your water bottle close for your primary hydration needs.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
