Soy Intolerance Guide

Soy is a common trigger for allergic reactions, especially among younger children. Mollakhalili-Meybodi, N., Arab, M. & Zare say this is due to biogenic amines, allergens and anti-nutritional factors that are present in soybeans. Positively, soy proteins that are the cause of soy allergies are less potent at triggering allergy symptoms than other common allergens such as peanuts or shellfish.

What’s more, soy is a common trigger for symptoms where no allergic reaction occurs and is more likely to be a soy intolerance or soy sensitivity due to the digestive nature of the symptoms. If you think you are suffering from a soy intolerance or allergy, this guide will outline symptoms of both, as well as the next steps you could take in getting a diagnosis.

• Rash or hives
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Narrowing of the throat
• Swelling of the face or lips
• Anaphylaxis (very rarely)

For individuals experiencing severe symptoms, please seek medical professional help as soon as possible.

Symptoms of Soy Intolerance and Soy Sensitivity Include:

• Tiredness
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Nausea

If you are allergic to soy, you must avoid foods containing the food item to prevent symptoms from occurring. For people with intolerances, it is possible that after removing the food from your diet for 21 days using an elimination diet, you can reintroduce soy and not experience negative reactions. 

Foods to avoid if you have a soy intolerance or allergy include:

• Edamame
• Tofu
• Foods with soy protein
• Soy sauce
• Teriyaki sauce
• Textured Vegetable Protein (often used as a meat and dairy substitute)
• Miso
• Tempeh
• Soy flour
• Natto
• Tamari

It is also important to check the labels on many common foods such as baked goods, canned goods, cereals, ice cream, and frozen dinners, as soy flour is commonly used as an ingredient in processed foods and condiments.

Ingredients which may mean soy and should be avoided too, are:

• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
• Monosodium Glutamate 
• Glycine Max
• Mono-diglyceride

Replacing key nutrients when eliminating soy

Soy Intolerance Testing From TMI Testing

If you’re suffering from a soy intolerance, allergy, or sensitivity – it’s wise to get tested so you can start making practical changes to your diet that could improve your wellbeing. At TMI Testing, we are specialist intolerance test providers, and our range of tests include: