If the immune system of the human body responds adversely towards coconut or the meals containing coconut, this problem is known as coconut allergy. This allergy is very rare and its severe reactions are barely found in individuals. Though, contact allergic dermatitis is commonly found and there are some reported cases of sensitization to coconut pollen.
Coconut is one of the very useful fruit across the world. It’s a native of tropical locations and it’s of great economic value to the man as internal white flesh may be eaten along with its water can be employed as a health beverage. The outer husk can be used to make ropes and mats. The derivatives of coconut are utilized in preparing a variety of delicacies around the world. Additionally it is utilized in preparing several cosmetic products such as lotions, shampoos and soaps.
Occasionally, cross allergic reactions are seen in individuals that are allergic to identical proteins found in plants nuts such as peanuts. Contact dermatitis allergy is usually found in certain people because of coconut as components in a variety of makeup and baby foods. Individuals that are allergic to latex, may also demonstrate sensitivity towards coconut. In accordance with FDA, foods containing coconut should have a label saying nuts as ingredients.
Symptoms of Coconut Allergy
Two main food groups causing allergies are dairy and nuts. Though, coconut have never been thought as a food to be causing allergies, but today, many people are experiencing sensitivity towards this nut. Some coconut allergy symptoms include the following:
- Eyes symptoms: Itchy, watery and sore eyes
- Skin problems: hives, facial redness, blisteres and skin flushing
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Respiratory problems
- Runny nose
- Constipation
- Swelling in throat
- Sinus pain or headache
- Tingling sensation in oral cavity
- Low blood pressure
- Asthma
- Coughing
- Sleeping disturbance
- Swollen glands
- Nausea
- Hoarse voice
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Light headedness
The body responds to particular proteins when you’ve got a food allergy or even a touch allergy through several proteins. The immune system of the human body reacts by releasing an antibody known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the blood vessels. Proteins within food or other material triggers the reaction.
Treatment of Coconut Allergy
The best treatment for any food borne allergy, is to completely avoid that food throughout the life.
People with nut allergy are advised to avoid all nuts and even the foods containing nuts. They must check salads, ice cream toppings, sauces, breads, desserts and certain baked items.
Botanically, coconut is not a nut but a fruit, but Food and Drug Administration has recognized this as a tree nut. Though, allergic reactions have been documented in coconut, but people allergic towards nut can safely eat coconut. It is better to seek medical guidance of an allergenist before consuming coconuts in the diet.
Some of the top coconut allergy treatment options:
- One must avoid contact with the allergen
- One must take adrenaline injection in case there is an anaphylactic reaction
- Antihistamines can be used
- Bronchodilators are useful for asthmatic symptoms
- Dietary modification may be required
- No treatment is required for mild reaction
- Antihistamines are useful for rhinitis allergy and allergy mediated skin conditions
- Desensitization, that is getting used to the allergen
- For treating anaphylaxis, hospitalization may be required
- Most of the baked products contain coconut. One must check them out
- Women also must purchase cosmetics carefully as some of them do contain coconut oil
- One must check out all daily use products such as shampoos, creams etc. that they do not contain coconut oil
