Nutritional Supplement

Coconut Oil

Possible Deficiencies

There is no human requirement for coconut oil or the shorter-length fatty acids it contains, so no deficiency is possible.

Side Effects

Serious allergic reactions to coconut or coconut oil have been reported but are considered rare.5,6,7

People using large amounts of coconut oil in their diet should have their blood cholesterol levels checked regularly.

References

1. Prior IA, Davidson F, Salmond CE, Czochanska Z. Cholesterol, coconuts, and diet on Polynesian atolls: a natural experiment: the Pukapuka and Tokelau island studies. Am J Clin Nutr 1981;34:1552-61.

2. Kaunitz H, Dayrit CS. Coconut oil consumption and coronary heart disease. Philippine J Intern Med 1992;30:165-71 [review].

3. Meinking TA. Infestations. Curr Probl Dermatol 1999;11:73-120 [review].

4. Meinking TA. Infestations. Curr Probl Dermatol 1999;11:73-120 [review].

5. Rosado A, Fernandez-Rivas M, Gonzalez-Mancebo E, et al. Anaphylaxis to coconut. Allergy 2002;57:182-3.

6. Teuber SS, Peterson WR. Systemic allergic reaction to coconut (Cocos nucifera) in 2 subjects with hypersensitivity to tree nut and demonstration of cross-reactivity to legumin-like seed storage proteins: new coconut and walnut food allergens. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;103:1180-5.

7. Couturier P, Basset-Stheme D, Navette N, Sainte-Laudy J. A case of coconut oil allergy in an infant: responsibility of "maternalized" infant formulas. Allerg Immunol (Paris) 1994;26:386-7 [in French].

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.