Ninety percent of all food allergies are related to eight common foods: soy, milk, wheat, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, fish and shellfish, according to the Cleveland Clinic. An allergic reaction to soy can cause mild to severe symptoms that could be life-threatening if not properly treated. MayoClinic.com states that the most efficient way to prevent and treat a soy allergy is to avoid the consumption of soy-based products. Knowing which foods to eat and which ones to avoid can prevent the development of unwanted reactions. Talk with your doctor before changing your diet.
Bread and Starch
It may be difficult to eat conventional breads and starches because many of them contain soy byproducts. The federal government requires all food manufacturers to disclose the use of soy on package labels. Read the label and ingredients of any product before eating it. The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital states any breads, cereals and baked goods that do not contain soy are considered safe. Some starches, such as popcorn or potato chips cooked in soy oil, may be safe. Most oil from soy does not contain the protein that causes an allergic reaction. Attempt to eat rice, barley, rye, oats, wheat and grits for your breads and starches.
Meats
The Cleveland Clinic recommends staying away from processed meats, such as sausage, lunch meats and hot dogs. Many of these products use soy-based fillers to substantiate the product. If you've been diagnosed with a soy allergy, you can eat fresh or frozen meats, such as fish, lamb, beef, pork, chicken, veal or turkey, according to the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Use caution when eating meat with any condiment. Many condiments, such as breading, gravy and sauces contain soy.
Dairy
Most dairy products are safe with a soy allergy. Dairy substitutes and non-dairy alternatives may contain soy, such as coffee creamers, soy milk and protein shakes.
Sweets
The safest desserts to eat with a soy allergy are gelatin, ice cream and cookies that are not made with soy ingredients. The Cleveland Clinic warns that some of these products contain hidden soy. Avoid ingredients, such as vegetable gum, hydrolyzed vegetable protein and textured vegetable protein, which may contain soy. If you develop common symptoms of a soy allergy, such as hives, shortness of breath, digestive complications, facial swelling, skin rashes, wheezing or nasal congestion, call your doctor immediately.
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