Page 6 - BrockCoNewsletterMayJune-2023-R1.indd

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/brain-fog/
https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/HealthU/2021/06/09/how-to-beat-brain-fog#.Y4jLsHbMI2

ALLergen AwareneSS: COCONUTS

Contrary to popular belief, coconuts are not sauces, cookies, cereal, some desserts, rum,
nuts. This tropical wonder is actually a fruit. candy bars, and infant formula.
The FDA requires food manufacturers to put Because of its many uses, eating is not the
the coconut, a member of the palms plant only way coconut enters the body. Coconut
family, in the tree nuts category. However, is a key ingredient in shampoos, soaps,
this creates confusion because the coconut lotions, skin cleansers, and many other
is not a tree nut. Most people with tree nut products. People who have coconut allergies
allergies can safely eat coconut. may have reactions to topical products that
contain the plant.
If you suspect that you are allergic to
coconut, consult an allergist. Medical testing True coconut allergies are not as common
is the best way to determine if your body has as other products categorized as tree
trouble digesting coconut. nuts. However, people allergic to coconut

Coconut is used in many food products to tend to have severe symptoms, including
add flavor and texture. Foods containing anaphylaxis, when exposed to the allergen.
coconut may include granola bars, curry If you have a rash, hives, upset stomach,
wheezing, coughing, or swollen lips, tongue,
COCONUT CAN HAVE MANY or face after eating or smoothing on products
FORMS ON A LABEL. with coconut, contact your doctor and avoid
LOOK FOR THESE TERMS: coconut and coconut-containing products.
Source:
• Coconut • Coconut
• Coconut cream https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/
PMC5664015/
water • Coconut
• Coconut milk sugar https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-coconut-
allergy-diet-guide-1324149