Soy Protein and Gluten

Soy protein and gluten are both common elements of the typical American diet. Both are plant-based nutritional components that occur naturally. Both soy protein and gluten provide dietary choices and create dietary obstacles, and you can choose to include or exclude them in your diet as you prefer.

Soy Protein

Soy protein is derived from the soy bean. According to an article published in "The Journal of Perinatal Education," the soy bean is a legume, and it is the only vegetable that provides all eight essential amino acids. In addition to being high in protein, soy beans are also an excellent source of iron, fiber, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Soy is a good protein source for vegetarians or vegans. Soy protein can be found in soy milk, most soy-based products, in the form of soy protein powder, and as an ingredient in some packaged foods.

Gluten

Gluten is a protein compound found in grain-based products, which give the grains their elasticity. Gluten is responsible for the structure and airiness of bread. Most grain products contain gluten, including flours, breads, pastas and cereals. Oats, rye, barley and other grains also contain gluten. Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease occur in people who cannot properly digest gluten. According to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center, over 3 million Americans are affected by celiac disease.

Gluten-Free Diet and Soy Protein

If you are gluten-sensitive or have celiac disease, you can eat soy protein. This protein is gluten-free in its natural state. Soy protein, when listed as an ingredient in other food products, is a gluten-free ingredient. However, while soy protein is gluten-free, not all soy-based products or products containing soy are gluten-free. Some brands of tofu, soy sauce, soy-based imitation meat products and other soy-based products may contain gluten.

Considerations

Some soy protein products that are typically gluten-free, including soy milk and soy protein powder, may contain trace amounts of gluten, depending on the added ingredients. Check the label of any soy-based product to ensure that it is gluten-free. Consult your physician if you think you may be gluten-sensitive or have celiac disease.