Could Soy Milk Cause Brain Fog

Soy milk doesn’t cause brain fog on its own. But if you have an allergy or sensitivity, consuming soy may cause symptoms that include brain fog. You can also develop brain fog for other reasons.

Brain fog can have various causes. But drinking soy milk isn’t likely to cause brain fog unless you have an allergy or sensitivity to it.

Brain fog isn’t a medical diagnosis but rather a colloquial term that typically describes symptoms that can include:
• difficulty concentrating
• difficulty thinking
• forgetfulness
• confusion

It can result from certain health conditions and allergies.
Keep reading to learn about the effect of soy allergies or sensitivities on brain fog, whether phytoestrogens in soy may play a role, and other causes of brain fog.

Can a soy allergy cause brain fog?
Soy allergies are common in both adults and infants.

If you’re allergic to soy and consume it, you may experience symptoms of an allergic reaction. These commonly include:
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• nausea and vomiting
• indigestion
• runny nose
• wheezing or trouble breathing
• itchy mouth
• swelling
• confusion
• hives

A severe allergic reaction can lead to anaphylactic shock, which is a life threatening emergency.
It’s possible that some allergies can cause brain fog.

Rhinosinusitis, a common symptom of seasonal allergies, can cause brain alterations that may result in symptoms of brain fog, according to 2021 research. The researchers also pointed out that worsening rhinosinusitis was also associated with other neurological symptoms, including:
• cognitive deficits
• mood changes
• memory issues
• trouble focusing
• worse school performance
• anxiety
• depression

A 2019 review of animal studies suggested that allergies can cause inflammation in certain brain pathways. This inflammation may lead to motor and learning deficits, according to researchers. However, this study was performed in mice. Research in humans on the neurological impacts of soy allergy is still needed.

It’s also important to note that soy milk can contain ingredients other than soy, including additives like emulsifiers. If you experience symptoms after drinking soy milk but not after eating soybeans, it’s possible that another ingredient may be responsible.
If you think you may be allergic to soy or another additive in soy milk, it’s best to talk with an allergist to get an allergy test.