Health: The myriad benefits of coconut water are being preached by celebrities and gym bunnies

The humble coconut has enjoyed favourable column inches in recent months, but gained further kudos when coconut water was reported to be the tipple of choice for Wimbledon marathon man John Isner.

Whether as milk, water or oil, coconut has long been hailed as a protector and cure for the body's internal and external ailments, with its high concentration of vitamins, minerals and electrolytes. The last 12 months, however, have seen it garner a superfood reputation, as the coconut water phenomenon in particular, makes its way across the pond.

Vocal support from high-profile sportsmen such as Isner and celebrity endorsement from Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Demi Moore to name a few has seen coconut-based lotions, potions and drinks fly off the shelves, with the former Material Girl putting her money where her mouth is and reportedly investing 1.5 million in Vita Coco, the New York-based company selling coconut water by the trolley-load. Rumours quickly circulated that actor Matthew McConaughey and singer Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers had followed suit, albeit with smaller investments.

Already popular in Brazil, where sales are in excess of 300 million a year, coconut water (the clear liquid found in young coconuts) is one of the fastest growing new food categories in the UK, with new brands promoting it as a healthy substitute for sports drinks or an on-trend mixer. If reports are to be believed, Vita Coco has turned down offers from Pepsico and Coca-Cola Co.

So what exactly is all the fuss about? Many scientists believe the water helps boost metabolism and, in turn, weight loss, its short chain fatty acids turning saturated fats into energy instead of storing it up as fat. Its string of sellable attributes also includes that it's cholesterol free, 99 per cent fat free and low in carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugars. It also boasts zinc, selenium, iodine, sulphur, manganese, vitamin C and B-group vitamins.

Coconut water contains anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and anti-fungal lauric acid, helping users fight off illness and infection. Other attributes include its ability to relieve sore throats and ulcers. High in nutritional value, coconut drinks are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, which in turn promotes healthy bones. Research further shows it can improve blood circulation, lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Advocates also claim it helps increase good cholesterol, reduces plaque formation, moderates sugar absorption and improves insulin sensitivity, as well as assisting good digestion and urinary health. Although not all scientists agree, some claim the water holds important anti-carcinogenic and anti-pathogenic properties, which help prevent cancer.

Skincare fanatics, too, have jumped on the coconut bandwagon, praising its ability to relieve dry skin and rashes; oils created by coconut have also been reported to help lifeless hair, adding moisture. Studies have found it penetrates the skin, minimising the sun damage that causes sagging, wrinkling and blemishes. Fans have also reported smoother, more youthful-looking complexions, claiming it's a natural source of cytokinins, a group of plant growth hormones that help regulate cell growth, development and ageing.

Edinburgh-based nutritional therapist Frances Bavin believes coconut water has many positive attributes, particularly in the sports realm.

"As a sports drink, coconut water is superior to other manufactured drinks. Pure coconut water acts as a natural electrolyte balancer, containing a higher amount of potassium and sodium and a lower amount of sugar.

"Potassium and sodium are two of the main minerals that need replacing after exercise and are needed for proper cell and nerve function; if there is a lot of sweating involved, then this is crucial."

Bavin also commends its lack of additives and preservatives, crediting the water as a good means of rehydrating after a workout. "Although carbohydrates are needed for more intense workouts, they are not necessarily a benefit in less intense or shorter duration exercise," she explains.

"Sports drinks are generally much higher in sugar than coconut water and this is not good for various health reasons, including weight loss. Studies have revealed positive effects on the cardiovascular, urinary and reproductive systems."

But she adds a word of caution: "Drinking too much can cause a laxative effect, so be warned."

This article was first published in Scotland on Sunday July 4, 2010