Coconut water contains two minerals, sodium and potassium, that help balance fluids in the body, experts say. Andrea Giancoli, a dietitian and spokeswoman for The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, says coconut water packs a potassium punch in addition to sodium, but there’s nothing magical about the drink – a healthy diet – especially bananas, potatoes, kidney beans, lentils, spinach and papaya – provides plenty of potassium. Coconut water comes from young coconuts. Coconut water is not coconut milk, which comes from older coconuts. As a coconut ages the water morphs into the white coconut meat that is pressed to produce coconut milk or oil. Nutritionist Monica Reinagel says it’s better to eat food containing potassium that also includes vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Most people who exercise for an hour or so a day, don’t need an electrolyte replacement drink – all they need to rehydrate is water, Reinagel said.