When’s the last time you popped open a coconut after a hard session at the gym? While it may seem unlikely, (not to mention bulky); the liquid found inside a young green coconut is nature’s version of a sports drink. For years heath enthusiasts have revered coconut water as a wellness elixir.

Zico [1] has packaged young green coconut water into convenient 11-ounce containers that can be easily chugged after a vigorous yoga [1] practice, mountain climb, or marathon. This water is not the stuff of big, brown tropical coconuts. Young greens are prized for their highly nutritious liquid. Zico’s 11-ounces are infused with more potassium than 15 sports drinks with no fat or added sugar.

Naturally occurring electrolytes make young green coconut water especially suited to post-workout hydration. One container of Zico contains five essential electrolytes — potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. Even better, coconut water infuses the body with necessary electrolytes without added sugar or artificial coloring. Zico also boasts a 4.8 pH level, which clocks it in with significantly less acid than the average sports drink.

And the flavor? If the only coconut you know is the sugary mix blended into a pina colada, Zico may be a bit of an acquired taste. Young green coconut water has the consistency of ordinary water and subtle slightly sour back note, but Zico is as eminently drinkable as a tall glass of H20. For those who long for a bit more zing in their hydration, Zico also comes flavored with mango, and my personal favorite, passion fruit and orange peel. Eat your heart out Gatorade.

Zico Coconut Water

Price: $21.00 for 12

Where to Buy: Amazon [2], and at select locations [3] .