Children's Allergies: Soy

Allergies are never fun, especially when the sufferer is a child. There are several types of allergies. There are environmental allergies to things like pollen, grass, hay, etc. Then there are indoor allergies to things like pets, mites, dust, and mold. Next there are food allergies. Food allergies are less common than environmental or indoor allergies. They are also more serious.

When it's a food that a child is allergic to things get a little bit tricky. Soy allergy sufferers are not only allergic to one food. They are actually allergic to many. Why? Because soy is found in many of the foods we eat every day.

Children love to eat. They seem to eat constantly, both at home and where ever else they go. If your child has a soy allergy it is very important that they do not eat foods containing soy or any of it's byproducts.

Monitoring the foods your child eats is the only way to go. Read labels carefully and check to make sure that there are no soy ingredients listed. Many of the most common food items available are full of soy. If your child is allergic to soy then a note will have to be sent to their school. The school must be informed of the soy allergy because of the fact that your child eats meals and snacks at school. The school will be happy to help you to keep your child on a soy free diet. Many child have special dietary needs and school are always willing to help in any way.

Symptoms of a soy allergy may be mild to severe. Mild symptoms include a reddened face and stomach ache after consuming a food or beverage with soy in it. Children may also have a white coating on their tongues when allergic to soy. Severe soy allergy symptoms include vomiting, hives, headache, and a strong sense of not feeling well after consuming a product containing soy.

The best way to deal with a soy allergy is to work closely with your child's doctor. Medications can be prescribed to help control symptoms but really the only true way to avoid soy allergy symptoms is to avoid soy. Read all labels very carefully when choosing foods and beverages. Soy has many forms. Children allergic to soy are also often allergic to others foods as well. Peas are included in the list. It is best for parents of children with soy allergies to ask their doctor for as much information as is possible. Take care and thanks for reading J