Question
My child is 5 months old and shows delayed growth and development, along with eczema on the skin. What kind of food should a phenylketonuria patient eat?
Answer
Phenylketonuria patients should avoid consuming dairy products, eggs, lean meat, dried beans, and soy products, as these foods contain higher levels of phenylalanine. Patients need to follow a low phenylalanine diet to ensure that the daily intake of phenylalanine is between 15-30 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, with a total protein intake of 2-4 grams per kilogram of body weight. Since most foods contain phenylalanine, strict dietary control is necessary, and professional nutritional guidance should be sought when needed.