Coconut Allergy: Symptoms and Treatment
Published Dec 19, 2021
Coconut is usually praised as the ultimate superfood. However, as with any other food, coconut can be deadly if you are allergic.
Although a coconut oil allergy is not as common as other allergies, such as peanut allergy, coconut allergy does exist.
Coconut Allergy Symptoms
Although coconut allergy is uncommon, food allergy symptoms associated with a coconut allergy may emerge in those who are allergic after drinking or eating foods prepared with coconut. Among these reactions are the following:
- Swelling (angioedema): In the face, lips, or tongue
- Skin reactions: Hives, rash, or eczema
- Airway symptoms: Runny nose, wheezing, or coughing
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea
Severe reactions, referred to as anaphylaxis, can occur in people allergic to coconut and damage several organ systems. Anaphylaxis to coconut, on the other hand, is extraordinarily rare.
Contact Allergic Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is more prevalent than a full-blown allergic reaction to coconut. This happens as a result of the presence of products produced from coconuts, such as:
These are found in moisturizers, soaps, shampoos, cleansers, and hand washing liquids.
A rash of itchy blisters may emerge a day or two after exposure to the coconut allergen and may last for several days. Consult your healthcare professional if you suspect contact dermatitis is caused by a coconut.
Treatment and Diagnosis
A healthcare provider (allergist) will typically identify coconut allergy following a physical examination, food allergy testing, and medical history.
Coconut allergy is treated by eliminating coconut from the diet. To avoid an allergic response, you must absolutely avoid foods containing coconut.
Coconut is used in a variety of food products as a flavoring and texture enhancer. Granola bars, cookies, various pastries, and cereals are the most likely to contain coconut.
For the sake of product labeling and consumer protection against suspected allergies, the Food Allergy Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) classifies coconut as a tree nut (even though it is a fruit).
Under FALCPA, manufacturers must identify coconut as a potential allergy ingredient, and foods containing coconut must be labeled “may contain tree nuts.” Additionally, you may see words on the label that read “contains coconut.”
This information should be included not just in the ingredients list but also in the container.
Not all goods specifically list ingredients derived from a coconut on the label. You have two options in this situation: contact the company and inquire about the exact substances in the food, or refrain from eating it.
Foods to Avoid that May Trigger Coconut Allergy
To prevent coconut in foods, you must be an investigator of food labels. Coconut is a derivative found in a wide variety of foods. Additionally, you may come across coconut in:
- Many desserts
- Chocolates
- Candy
- Cakes
- Soaps and shampoos
- Infant formula
- Rum
Keep an eye out for any type of coconut on the label, such as:
- Coconut
- Coconut milk
- Coconut sugar
- Coconut water
- Coconut oil
- Coconut milk powder
- Coconut cream
The Takeaway
Due to the fact that there is no cure for coconut allergy, living with it entails learning to avoid coconut and coconut-derived ingredients in foods and non-food products while remaining vigilant for future reactions.
Carry an emergency first aid kit with you at all times, including contact details, antihistamines, and, if prescribed by your healthcare provider, an epinephrine auto-injector.
If you are allergic to another tree nut but have eaten coconut without issue and wish to retain it in your diet, speak with your allergist about additional testing. They can point you in the right direction.
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About The Author
Krizzia Paolyn, is an SEO Specialist and author. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She started her career as a content writer for various digital magazines and renowned publications. It has always been her passion to share her voice, and at the same time, to encourage others to share their voices as well.
