Is Coconut Low FODMAP?
Yes, coconut is low FODMAP in appropriate serving sizes, with canned coconut milk specifically classified as low FODMAP at 0.24 g per serving. 1
Coconut Products and FODMAP Classification
Canned coconut milk is definitively low FODMAP and can be safely consumed during the restriction phase of a low FODMAP diet. 1 This makes it an excellent dairy milk alternative for individuals with IBS who need to avoid lactose-containing products. 2
Practical Recommendations for Coconut Use
Use coconut milk as a lactose-free alternative when preparing foods that traditionally contain dairy, such as chai tea or other beverages, as regular dairy milk is high FODMAP due to its lactose content. 2
Coconut milk serves as one of the recommended alternatives alongside lactose-free milk and almond milk for IBS patients following a low FODMAP diet. 2
During the restriction phase (4-6 weeks), coconut products classified as low FODMAP can be included freely without concern for triggering FODMAP-related gastrointestinal symptoms. 3
Important Context About FODMAP Diet Implementation
The low FODMAP diet should be implemented as second-line therapy only after first-line traditional dietary advice has failed to provide adequate symptom relief. 4, 3
Professional supervision by a registered dietitian with gastrointestinal expertise is strongly recommended, as the diet can be complex and potentially associated with increased food costs. 3
The diet follows a three-phase process: restriction (4-6 weeks), reintroduction (6-10 weeks), and personalization to determine individual FODMAP sensitivity. 3
Key Caveat About Portion Sizes
While coconut milk is classified as low FODMAP at the tested serving size of 0.24 g per serving 1, portion control remains important as consuming excessive amounts of any food may trigger symptoms. The low FODMAP classification applies to specific tested serving sizes, and exceeding these amounts could potentially increase FODMAP load.