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PKU Diet Foods

PKU is the abbreviation for a metabolic disorder called phenylketonurea in which a portion of protein, called phenylalanine, is not processed correctly. Phenylalanine is found in nearly all types of food but is particularly concentrated in dairy products, eggs, nuts and certain grain products. It is also produced from artificial sweeteners. When PKU is discovered in time, a special PKU diet can prevent severe developmental delays. The prescribed diets must be followed for life. All newborns born in hospitals in the United States have a blood test in the first days of life to check for PKU.

  1. Newborns

    • There are phenylalanine-free prescription formulas for babies. These special PKU formulas are the main part of the infant diet. Breast milk contains phenylalanine, so breastfeeding is contraindicated for babies with PKU, although a dietitian may recommend that restricted amounts of breast milk are included with the PKU formula, if desired. Other foods are introduced to babies just as they are to infants without PKU, as long as the new foods are low in phenylalanine.

    Children

    • Each child needs a customized diet in addition to continued formula use. Even among those with PKU, the amounts of phenylalanine that can be tolerated differ. A partnership with a dietitian is essential throughout life. For example, although phenylalanine is mainly found in protein-rich foods, according to the Mayo Clinic, an ear of corn with 90 milligrams of phenylalanine may be a whole day's worth for some people. Low phenylalanine foods include fruit, puffed rice and vegetables, but it is important to keep a record of how much phenylalanine is taken in. Even when you eat foods that are "safe," it is possible to get too much phenylalanine if you overeat. Commercially prepared foods can alleviate diet boredom. Low or phenylalanine-free varieties of dairy and bread products are available from specialty retailers.

    Adults

    • Formula remains a part of the adult's life also. It is not the same as baby or child formula but is made for adults with PKU. Creativity in the kitchen is helpful for the adult with PKU. Dairy and bread products are nearly all to be avoided, as well as artificial sweeteners. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a low phenylalanine breakfast like puffed rice with a non-dairy creamer diluted with water. Fruits can be blended with vanilla flavoring and ice for a smoothie. It also suggests vegetable-topped baked potatoes as a dinner idea or stir fry. Keep lots of low-phenylalanine veggies on hand and different types of spices and flavorings. That way, you'll find the combinations you like best.

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