Rough weekend? We understand. So we’ll make this short and sweet. Despite what your seemingly well-intentioned friends tell you, your best defense against a hangover is not more alcohol. Try coconut water instead.

Branded as “nature’s sports drink”, the many benefits of coconut water, whether or not you’re recovering from too many excesses, make it worth incorporating into your diet. One 14oz container contains more potassium than 2 bananas and 15x the amount contained in normal sports drinks.  It is fat and cholesterol free, packed with five major electrolytes – potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, sodium and calcium – and regulates your digestive system which improves your skin, detoxifies your body and boosts your immune system.

Still not sold? In January 2010, Madonna, a woman known for her extreme exercise regiment and overall obsession with health and prolonged youth invested in Vita Coco, the nation’s best selling coconut water. The MKIAs happen to be big fans of Vita Coco as well. With 60% of the market share, it is the most accessible of all the brands but ZICO runs a close second and is also a good bet. You can buy both at amazon.com.

A few things to remember with coconut water – you should drink it chilled, it just tastes better, and once opened it should be consumed within 48 hours. We hope you will heed our (and Madonna’s) advice and make coconut water part of your permanent diet. Why not start today? If you had a weekend anything like ours, we are sure you need it.

xoxo Melina