Coconut Water

As a drink, coconut water is best served in moderation after 12 months of age, so it does not displace the necessary nutrition of breast milk or formula. Coconut water may be introduced as an ingredient in solid food as soon as baby is ready to start solids.

Coconut water is the clear liquid found inside young, green coconuts. As the coconut matures, the liquid is gradually replaced by the white coconut meat. Widely consumed in tropical regions around the world straight from the fruit, coconut water is now globally available in packaged forms too. It has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor and is different than coconut milk, which is a processed liquid made from blending grated mature coconut meat with water.

• If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, look for coconut water with the only ingredient as "100% coconut water" (and no added sugars or fruit juices).

• Once a fresh coconut is opened or a carton of coconut water is unsealed, it must be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days to prevent spoilage.

When choosing and serving coconut water for toddlers 12 months and up, aim for products that:

• Have no added sugars

• Are pasteurized (not raw)

• Ideally get diluted with water

No. Coconut water presents a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, remove any pulp from the coconut water and serve coconut water in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals.

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No, coconut allergy is rare.^{[1] [2]} However, in the rare cases when it does occur, coconut allergy has been associated with severe reactions.^[2]

Although it is not typical for individuals with peanut or tree nut allergies to also be allergic to coconut, cross-reactivity has occasionally been observed between coconut and macadamia, almond, walnuts, hazelnuts, lentils, and latex.^{[3] [4]}

Yes, in moderation. Coconut water can be a great source of fluid and electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium and is also generally lower in natural sugar than fruit juice. That said, it is naturally rich in sodium as well, which should be limited in the diets of babies and young children. Avoid offering or drinking coconut water in excess, as in very large amounts, it can lead to electrolyte abnormalities and digestive upset.^[5]

Regular and especially excessive consumption of sweet drinks may reduce the diversity of foods and nutrients consumed, increase the risk of dental cavities, and alter appetite in ways that can negatively affect growth.^[6]

While coconut water offers plenty of fluid to hydrate the intestines, it is not recommended to treat constipation in babies. It lacks fiber, which plays an important role in healthy digestion, and when consumed in excess, it may also lead to digestive upset. Talk to your pediatric healthcare provider before offering coconut water as a remedy for constipation. To learn more about constipation, read our guide on How to Relieve Infant Constipation.