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Soy is a wonderful, natural product. One would take this to mean that it is an ideal, healthy addition to the diet. While many people do enjoy the benefits of soy, this is not the case for everyone. Both adults and young children may be allergic to soy. Allergic reactions can range from bothersome to life-threatening. Although severe reactions are uncommon, it is a good idea to be alert to the possibility of allergy.

Soy allergy symptoms can include gastrointestinal difficulties. The person who is allergic to soy may experience vomiting, nausea, and discomfort in the abdominal area upon consuming soy products. Soy allergy can also cause skin problems. The skin can become patchy, scaly, and itchy. Hives may develop in some people who are allergic to soy.

While more serious allergic reactions are less common, they can and do occur. The blood pressure may become seriously low. The person may experience difficulty breathing. He may become unconscious, or go into shock. These problems require immediate medical attention.

One problem with soy allergy that it is often difficult to pinpoint. First, these symptoms can be mistaken for other medical conditions. Second, the person may not realize that he is consuming soy, unless he is meticulous about examining the labels of everything he purchases. If you have a serious allergy to soy, examining every product you buy may be essential to your health.

An additional difficulty surrounding soy allergy is its use amongst babies and small children. As trends, health issues, and personal preference often lead parents and pediatricians to choose soy-based baby formulas, an infant may be ingesting something to which he is allergic. The baby who is allergic to soy may begin experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. As these are common problems amongst most infants anyway, an allergy to his soy-based formula may not be immediately recognized as the source of the problem. He may also experience digestive difficulties, as well as the same skin or breathing problems associated with soy allergy in adults. If your baby displays any of these symptoms while he is using soy-based baby formula, you should consider the possibility that he may be allergic. His pediatrician can recommend a different product, if this is the case.

If you or a member of your family is allergic to soy, examining and possibly overhauling your diet can be helpful. While it is logical to not consume any products which contain soy, many people who have this allergy are allergic to other basic food products as well. Although most cases of soy allergy do not lead to serious repercussions, even the most minor symptoms can create a sense of unwellness and interfere with one's daily life. Soy allergy, whether in an adult or an infant, should be evaluated by a physician. Your doctor can advise you about the foods you should avoid, and recommend products which are better for you. Soy is indeed a good, natural product. The range of allergy symptoms and the degree of their severity show that it is not for everyone.