Does Your Tree Nut Allergy Apply to Coconuts?
Coconuts may be a concern for people who have allergies to other nuts.
Coconut allergies are uncommon.
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Does a Tree Nut Allergy Apply to Coconut?
The real question is whether coconut is a dangerous food for those with tree nut allergies.
And the answer is, “It depends.
Botanically, coconuts are most closely related to other palms and betel nuts.
They come from coconut palm trees and are not closely related to most other tree nuts.
A good example of this phenomenon are cashews and pistachios.
These are two closely related plants that contain similar proteins.
People who are allergic to one of these nuts are often allergic to both.
There is some evidence of cross-reactivity between coconuts and hazelnuts and between coconuts and walnuts.
One study also found an association between coconut allergies and those to almonds and macadamias.
While there are associations, the likelihood of also having a coconut allergy remains considerably low.
For example, one study examined children with peanut and tree nut allergies.
The results concluded that these children were more likely to be sensitive to sesame than coconut.
It is important to ask your allergist.
Its also present in rum, candy, and many desserts.
Youll find many coconut-derived ingredients in soaps and shampoos as well.
Some people may haveskin sensitivity (or allergic contact dermatitis)to coconut oil from these products.
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