Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Skim Milk vs Coconut Water: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Coconut Water is generally healthier

Coconut Water comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (19 vs 34), more fiber (1.1g vs 0g), less sugar (2.6g vs 5g), making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Coconut Water

19 kcal

More Protein

Skim Milk

3.4g

More Fiber

Coconut Water

1.1g

Less Sugar

Coconut Water

2.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Skim Milk
34
Coconut Water
19
Proteinper 100g
Skim Milk
3.4g
Coconut Water
0.7g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Skim Milk
5g
Coconut Water
3.7g
Fatper 100g
Skim Milk
0.1g
Coconut Water
0.2g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSkim MilkCoconut WaterDifference
Calories34kcal19kcal+15.0kcal
Protein3.4g0.7g+2.7g
Carbohydrates5g3.7g+1.3g
Fat0.1g0.2g-0.1g
Fiber0g1.1g-1.1g
Sugar5g2.6g+2.4g
Sodium42mg105mg-63.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Skim Milk

Per 100g:34 calories
Per cup (150g):51 calories
Per serving (85g):29 calories

Coconut Water

Per 100g:19 calories
Per cup (150g):29 calories
Per serving (85g):16 calories

Diet Compatibility

Skim Milk

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVegetarianLow-Sodium

Coconut Water

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Skim Milk

  • Higher in protein (3.4g vs 0.7g)
  • Lower sodium (42mg vs 105mg)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Skim Milk nutrition →

When to Choose Coconut Water

  • Lower in calories (19 vs 34)
  • More fiber (1.1g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.7g vs 5g)
  • Less sugar (2.6g vs 5g)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Coconut Water nutrition →

Skim Milk vs Coconut Water: Nutritional Analysis

Skim Milk is more calorie-dense at 34 calories per 100g compared to 19 for Coconut Water, a difference of 15 calories. On the protein front, Skim Milk delivers more with 3.4g per 100g versus 0.7g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Skim Milk and Coconut Water tell different nutritional stories. Skim Milk provides 5g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Coconut Water contains 3.7g carbs, 0.2g fat, and 1.1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Coconut Water supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Skim Milk contains 5g while Coconut Water has 2.6g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Coconut Water is the lower-calorie choice at 19 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Skim Milk provides more protein (3.4g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Coconut Water offers more fiber (1.1g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Skim Milk or Coconut Water?

Skim Milk has more calories with 34 kcal per 100g, compared to Coconut Water with 19 kcal. That's a difference of 15 calories per 100g serving.

Is Skim Milk healthier than Coconut Water?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Coconut Water is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Coconut Water has 19 calories, 0.7g protein, and 1.1g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Skim Milk and Coconut Water?

Skim Milk has more protein with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Coconut Water with 0.7g. Skim Milk provides 2.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Skim Milk or Coconut Water?

For weight loss, Coconut Water is the better choice with only 19 calories per 100g compared to 34 calories in Skim Milk. Coconut Water also offers 1.1g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Skim Milk or Coconut Water have fewer carbs?

Coconut Water has fewer carbs with 3.7g per 100g, compared to Skim Milk with 5g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Coconut Water is the better option with 1.3g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.