Paleo Diet and Paleolithic Diet Questions & Answers

Question

1

So, I have just started using Raw Coconut oil for cooking and other uses and my 3 year old HATES the smell of it. As soon as he smells it, he starts crying and will even start gagging. It's crazy.

Any ideas on what's going on? Could be be allergic?

Thanks! Maranda

flag	asked Dec 6 2011 at 15:51 Maranda 11●1

cliff · Answer 1 · 2011-12-06 16:12:55Z UTC

2

Refined coconut oil is taste less and less allergenic.

answered Dec 6 2011 at 16:12

cliff
13.4k●1●9●28

	I wouldn't say it has no taste; it tastes (and smells) like plastic to me. But, it definitely does not smell or taste like coconut so it would solve that problem. – Kewpie Dec 6 2011 at 16:29
	I'm just curious... I've seen a lot of people write on here that they can't stand the taste of coconut oil... is it comparable to coconut milk? Cause the milk is out of this world! – Phazo Dec 7 2011 at 5:19
	I love the taste of virgin/non-refined coconut oil. I use the Nutiva brand, but there are lots of other good ones out there. However, the refined stuff, while still healthy, has a plastic odor and taste. Sadly the Spectrum brand--which is refined--seem to be the one most people find in their regular grocery store. I think that may be where most (but not all) of the negative reviews come from. The unrefined brands have a distinct coconut odor and a mild flavor. The taste isn't quite as rich or strong as coconut milk, but if you like one you'll be more likely to like the other. – Kewpie Dec 7 2011 at 14:08
	I've used spectrum a couple times and never noticed a plastic odor or taste. – cliff Dec 7 2011 at 14:33
	I too haven't found any plastic-y refined coconut oils. – Matt Dec 7 2011 at 18:23

sage_ · Answer 2 · 2011-12-06 16:00:34Z UTC

1

Aversion to scent is a protective mechanism. maybe he is allergic/sensitive to coconut? or perhaps it triggers the memory of a bad experience; maybe a painful rash that was treated with a cream that smelled like coconut?

answered Dec 6 2011 at 16:00

sage_
10.4k●1●5●22

Like a sunburn, perhaps? – dianarchy Jul 14 at 2:26

Walcott · Answer 3 · 2011-12-06 16:43:48Z UTC

Maybe you should check to see if he does have an allergy.

But to be honest, he sounds like a normal kid. Kids always have varying preferences when it comes to food, but that doesn't mean they know what's good or bad for them. When I was young I used to hate the taste of broccoli and cauliflower, but I'm glad my mom forced me to eat it because its healthy!

DBM · Answer 4 · 2011-12-06 16:50:00Z UTC

0

It's not just kids I'm 50 and gag but no allergic reactions on it, but I'm good with refined CO I eat it out of the jar

answered Dec 6 2011 at 16:50

DBM
1

it should say and gag on it but no reactions – DBM Dec 6 2011 at 16:51

Sara S. · Answer 5 · 2011-12-06 17:57:14Z UTC

You might try different brands. I have a smell aversion to some brands of coconut oil because they smell soapy to me. I get a jar home, open it, and can't eat. Other brands smell delicious. I've also had a problem with older coconut oil smelling terrible. Even within the same brand: sometimes it smells ok, other times it smells bad. My favorite so far has been Dr Bronner's coconut oil. Second favorite was Tropical Traditions. The Spectrum brand has been the spottiest for me, but perhaps it tends to be on the shelf longer at the store. Whole Foods's 365 brand has been mostly good to me but sometimes bad.

Dorado Galore · Answer 6 · 2011-12-07 04:35:01Z UTC

0

Maybe your kid isn't keen on being close to your stove while you're cooking, per se. Just saying.

answered Dec 7 2011 at 4:35

Dorado Galore
8,287●1●3●23

Condor · Answer 7 · 2011-12-07 16:21:14Z UTC

When I first began using coconut oil I found that the smell was near enough to make me want to shut the stove off and leave the room. After about a week of use, the smell no longer bothered me. I've noticed that different brands do have different pungencies, as Sara S. mentioned, so you might try switching things up. However, after not using the oil I found I liked best for a week or two (just fell into a routine of butter and lard), I bought a jar and again had the same smell aversion as when I first started using coconut oil. I have no idea what causes this, but, for me, after some exposure, I don't even notice it and even start loving the smell. Good luck!

Jolee · Answer 8 · 2012-07-14 00:47:20Z UTC

I have a scent triggered allergy to coconut.. when i smell it i start to gag and my throat will swell shut.. if he is crying and gagging you may want to take him to an allergist to do a skin test to check.. i lived 25 years before this allergy hit me and its supper dangerous to leave be even for a few minutes without an epipen handy. in the event he has an anaphalactic allergy to it you would be prepared and not have to go through that trama

3 year old son has Smell Aversion to Coconut Oil

8 Answers