This article describes the aims and benefits of a PKU diet.
Researchers found that there were some deficits in neurological and social function.
Protein foods are the highest sources, so they should be avoided.
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For children up to age 4, protein needs are 1.5 to 2.1 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Duration
The PKU diet is a life-long diet for anyone with PKU.
It’s essential that infants and children follow it strictly.
If you resume it, these should improve.
Poultry (chicken, turkey, etc.)
Fish and seafood
Eggs
Soy foods (tofu, tempeh, soy meats, cheeses, etc.)
Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, kidney, black, pinto beans, etc.)
General Guidelines
Aspartame:This artificial sweetener is made from phenylalanine, so it should be avoided.
Ask your dietitian for a good resource.
Ask your healthcare provider for more specific guidelines.
This will also help keep you more full and satisfied.
Babies with PKU who are not breastfed must only receive a special formula that doesn’t contain phenylalanine.
Considerations
Monitoring
Your blood should be drawn monthly to double-check that phenylalanine isn’t accumulating.
General Nutrition
If followed properly, the PKU diet should be nutritionally adequate.
It can help to have some go-to take-a-long meals and snacks in mind for when you need them.
you might also flavor them in different ways for more variety.
Cost
A major barrier to the PKU diet is the cost of your medical foods.
Support
Having to follow such a strict diet can be socially isolating at times.
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Southeast Regional Genetics connection.PKU nutrition management guidelines.
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Southeastern Genetics web link.PKU nutrition management guidelines.
Cristine M. Trahms Program for Phenylketonuria.What is the diet for PKU?
