What are some benefits of a soy-free diet?

A soy-free diet allows people with soy allergies to avoid allergens and the symptoms that they cause. According to the World Health Organization, soy is one of the most significant food allergens, and the prevalence of soy allergies is estimated to be 6 percent.

The symptoms of an allergic reaction to soy include difficulty breathing, itching around the mouth and hives. Rarely, a soy allergy can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening medical condition.

Some common foods that are likely to contain soy products are baked goods, cereal, chocolate, chicken and deli meats. Soy is also a very common ingredient in most Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese and Korean.