Postprandial Blood Glucose and Glycaemic Index of Immature Coconut Nuts Water (Cocos nucifera L.)

Aims: Coconut water is a beverage that is becoming increasingly popular among the population, and manufacturers recommend its large-scale marketing in the form of cans. Such an innovation would attract a larger number of consumers

This study aims to determine the glycemic response and glycemic index of coconut water, considering the variety used as a factor.

Study Design: This research is quantitative in nature. Using a representative sample, we will be able to produce results on the benefits of drinking coconut water according to standard norms, tests and methods. we will know whether coconut water can be consumed without risk to the health of diabetics

Place and Duration of Study: Nangui Abrogoua University, National Centre for Agricultural Research, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, It took place from February to November, 2020

Materials and Methods: The material used consists of coconuts aged 9 months and blood glucose testing accessories. The methodology implemented is described as follows:

Methodology: The varieties tested were West African Tall (WAT), Malaysian Yellow Dwarf (MYD), Equatorial Guinea Green Dwarf (EGD), Port-Bouêt 121+ (PB 121+) and Port-Bouêt 113+ (PB 113+). The subjects in the study cohort consumed 750, 750, 850, 900 and 850 ml of water respectively. Capillary blood samples were taken after water ingestion to determine the postprandial glycaemic response. The glycaemic indexes of the waters of the same types were then analysed using standard methods.

Results: The results showed that coconut water from MYD (7.3 mmol/L), EGD (6.90 mmol/L) and WAT (6.80 mmol/L) varieties gave higher glycemic responses compared to PB121+ (6.52 mmol/L) and PB113+ (5.6 mmol/L). In terms of the glycaemic index, the varieties PB121+ (46.36%), NJM (44.72%) and PB113+ (43.71%) had higher values than EGD (41.50%) and WAT (40.04%). In view of the results obtained, the water of each of the five varieties studied is classified as a food with a low glycemic index according to current standards.

Conclusion: The results of this study show that coconut water is a food with a low glycaemic index, as the GI is between 40 and 47%, regardless of the type of coconut used. Therefore, according to international glycaemic index standards, coconut water could be consumed by everyone, including diabetics.