A well-balanced nutritious diet should include carbohydrates, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and a source of dietary protein. Proteins are the dietary sources of amino acids, which are important to build necessary build necessary molecules, including proteins in your own body. The inability to properly metabolize dietary protein may lead to serious health complications.
Phenylketonuria
A genetic defect called phenylketonuria results in the inability to properly breakdown phenylalanine, which is an amino acid found in dietary proteins. According to MayoClinic.com, children that are born with phenylketonuria may develop a mental disability including brain damage and retardation. Management of phenylketonuria side effects is primarily focused on many diet restrictions including the avoidance of all dietary protein sources like meats and fish, beans, dairy products, chocolates, soft drinks and artificial sweeteners. Foods that are lower in protein, like fruits, vegetables, breads and cereals are usually considered safe to eat.
Lysinuric Protein Intolerance
While different from phenylketonuria, lysinuric protein intolerance describes a condition that results in the inability to metabolize amino acids found in proteins. These amino acids include lysine, arginine and ornithine. Sufferers may experience nausea and vomiting following the consumption of a protein-rich meal. Long-term complications of lysinuric protein intolerance includes a compromised immune system, liver damage, kidney damage, neurological disorders, lung disease and even death.
Tyrosinemia
Children who are unable to break down the amino acid tyrosine are said to suffer from tyrosenemia. Tyrosinemia sufferers lack a particular enzyme that is responsible for tyrosine metabolism. Type I tyrosinemia may cause serious damage to the liver, lungs, kidneys and nerves and children typically need to get a liver transplant. Restricted diets do not affect type I tyrosinemia sufferers. Type II tyrosinemia is characterized by problems with intellectual development and skin and eyes sores. Protein-restricted diets are effective at managing type II tyrosinemia.
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