Question
How should a suitable diet be arranged for phenylketonuria patients?
Answer
Phenylketonuria patients should adhere to a low-phenylalanine diet to prevent excessive phenylalanine levels. During infancy, low-phenylalanine special milk powder or hydrolyzed protein formula can be used. As solid foods are introduced, rice, noodles, potatoes, and vegetables should be the main components, with moderate intake of fruits. Animal proteins, dairy products, and legumes should be avoided as much as possible. It is generally recommended to follow this diet lifelong to reduce the risk of nervous system damage.