Soy Lecithin Allergy: Symptoms, Causes & Reactions

Soy is known to cause many allergies, but what are the specific allergy symptoms of the soy product soy lecithin?

Definition

• The form of soy lecithin that is usually found in foods is a soybean oil derivative.

Background

• Allergies to soy products are generally a reaction to the soy protein. The presence of the proteins is usually altered by the method used to process the soy.

Identification

• Soyconnection.com states that the system of processing soy lecithin for use in food is called the "hot-solvent extraction technique." This method usually destroys all of soy's allergenic proteins.

Considerations

• Very few documented cases of allergies to soy lecithin or soy oil products have been noted.

Potential

• Regular soy allergies can result in the following symptoms: hives, nausea, rhinitis and, rarely, a difficulty breathing.

Other Information

• Sometimes people experience a food intolerance toward soy, which is not a true allergy but can cause some uncomfortable side effects and should be mentioned. A food intolerance to soy has been known to cause diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration. These symptoms occur most frequently in infants who consume a soy formula.

Final Thought

• As with any mild food allergy, the key to preventing symptoms is to avoid the food associated with them. There are a wide variety of soy foods available, and many do not contain soy lecithin.