So you’re deathly allergic to peanuts, how much worse can it get right? As it turns out it can get a lot worse if you’re not careful. Here is my story:

Since as far back as I know I have been allergic to peanuts. Growing up I also had allergies to dairy, eggs and seafood (all of which I’ve outgrown -> For more on outgrowing allergies and the importance of testing see my other article here).  When I was about 16 I started eating a ton of Vector (a high protein cereal made by Kellogg’s). Vector derives the majority of its protein from Soy Protein Isolate (which is basically 100% allergen). As I ate more and more of this cereal I started to react to it. Eventually I stopped eating it. A few months after this I naively drank a protein shake derived entirely of soy protein and ended up in the hospital. Today, I’m very much allergic to soy.

So here are the lessons:

1. You can develop food allergies over time. Those who already have allergies are most susceptible, and during adolescents is the most dangerous time.
2. Peanuts are a legume and therefore anyone allergic to peanuts are likely susceptible to, or already have, an allergy to other legumes (beans, peas, soy etc).
3. Each reaction you have strengthens the allergy. By ignoring my initial subtle reactions to soy and continuing to eat it and react I allowed my allergy to grow much stronger. For this reason it is best to avoid consistently consuming large quantities of potential allergens.
4. When you have an allergy you are allergic to the particular protein (this is why peanut oil will not cause a reaction). Soy protein isolate is particularly dangerous as it is pure allergy, versus say soybeans.

My advice is to be tested for legumes, especially soy, as an allergy as soon as possible. Avoid consuming too much soy because it is a painful allergy to develop. Soy (and especially soy protein isolate) is used by lower quality food companies to add texture and can show up in just about anything. Be particularly carely of any frozen chicken products, protein supplements or complete meals/meal replacements.