The main treatment for phenylketonuria, commonly called PKU, is a low-protein diet that avoids most sources of the protein phenylalanine, according to MayoClinic.com. People with PKU cannot process part of this essential amino acid, and phenylalanine accumulates in the body if they eat any significant amounts. The diet can be frustrating because phenylalanine occurs in most foods. Since the condition is genetic and present at birth, parents must deal with the situation almost immediately.
Effects
A low-protein diet for PKU is the only way to prevent serious health problems associated with this disorder, explains the U.S. National Institutes of Health. If phenylalanine levels in the body become too high, it can lead to brain damage and severe mental retardation. Newborns in developed countries are screened for PKU because both breast milk and regular infant formula contain phenylalanine. Babies with the condition must drink a phenylalanine-free infant formula. Those who start this special diet soon after birth develop normally, according to MedlinePlus.
Restricted Foods
The PKU diet involves limiting phenylalanine intake to only the amount essential for normal growth and body processes. The diet prohibits any high-protein food, including meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, eggs, nuts, soy and other beans, peas and chocolate. It also limits the amount of foods with moderate levels of protein, such as pasta, rice, bread, baked goods and even certain vegetables and fruits. In addition, individuals with PKU cannot consume any foods or beverages containing the artificial sweetener aspartame, because this substance releases phenylalanine during digestion.
Allowed Foods
People following a PKU diet consume weighed or measured amounts of grain products along with fruit and vegetables, as well as a phenylalanine-free nutritional beverage supplement, explains the Cristine M. Trahms Program for Phenylketonuria at the University of Washington at Seattle. Special low-protein breads and pastas are available to provide more variety.
Record Keeping
Keeping precise records of phenylalanine consumption is necessary when following this diet, advises. You'll need to use standard measuring cups and spoons, and a scale that weighs food in grams. You may keep your own food diary, or use special PKU record-keeping software.
Time Frame
A safe level of phenylalanine consumption is different for each PKU patient. A doctor determines the safe amount by monitoring diet records and blood tests, and a dietitian works with the patient to create an individualized diet. Historically, people with the condition were allowed to quit the diet after reaching adolescence, but physicians have found that following it throughout life provides best results. Adults with PKU tend to feel better and have improved attention, concentration and memory when following the PKU diet, according to the University of Washington.
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