Soy allergies are often overlooked. Soy's versatility and alleged influence in preventing certain cancers and diseases, overshadows lesser known negative aspects of the product: soy triggers allergic reactions in sensitive people, inciting symptoms such as hives, difficulty swallowing or breathing and swelling. Consult a physician immediately if you suspect a soy allergy. A soy-free diet for allergies should consist of a variety of well-balanced and nutritious foods.
Avoid Associated Legumes
A soy allergy develops when the body responds abnormally to the proteins found in soy. It is essential to avoid eating allergenic foods that contain soy. The soybean is classified as a legume, and sensitivity to one type of legume may mean allergy to another type, so it may be necessary to monitor legumes in your diet, including navy, kidney and black beans as well as lentils, carob and peanuts.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are a healthy part of any diet and should not be excluded from a soy allergy diet. Produce is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that are needed to maintain normal body functions and hormonal balance. They are also rich in antioxidants that ward off certain cancers and heart disease. Select fresh and frozen produce for the healthiest varieties and avoid canned or packaged vegetables that have added sauces and seasonings containing soy.
Meat
Meat may be eaten on a soy-allergy diet. Many meat substitutes that are made for vegetarians or vegans contain soy as it is used to replicate the textures and tastes of meat. This is common in many commercially packaged veggie burgers, dogs and chicken nuggets. Read nutrition labels carefully and avoid those that have textured vegetable protein listed as this is also a soy product. If you are not opposed to eating meat, select lean, high-protein, low-fat cuts such as chicken, turkey, lean beef and lamb.
Soy Dairy Alternatives
Soy milk is a frequently consumed alternative to cow's milk for those avoiding dairy-based products. However, if you are allergic to soy, you will need to avoid soy milk and cheeses or yogurts made with soy. You can still enjoy other dairy products however such as cow's milk and cheeses if not dairy-intolerant, or those made from almond, rice or hemp.
