Phenylketonuria (Holistic)

About This Condition

Early diagnosis is key to treating PKU, a rare genetic disorder that results in an amino acid imbalance in the body. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.

Fight back with fish oil
Take a daily supplement containing 500 mg for every 8.8 pounds of body weight to prevent deficiencies caused by the PKU diet
Seek support from supplements
Prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies caused by the PKU diet by taking supplements that provide the daily value of L-tyrosine, vitamin K, vitamin B12, and selenium
Discover branched-chain amino acids
Under a healthcare provider’s supervision, improve mental functioning by adding amino acid supplements to each meal and at bedtime; take 150 mg per 2.2 pounds (1 kg) of body weight each of valine and isoleucine, and 200 mg per 2.2 pounds (1 kg) of body weight of leucine
Monitor amino acids in your diet
Work with your healthcare provider and a nutritionist to maintain a phenylalanine-restricted diet that is nutritionally adequate
Pass up aspartame
Help prevent increased phenylalanine intake by steering clear of soft drinks, candy, and other foods and drinks sweetened with aspartame (Nutrasweet)

About

About This Condition

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a rare genetic disorder that results in excessive accumulation of the amino acid, phenylalanine, and reduced levels of the amino acid, L-tyrosine, in the blood.¹

If untreated, high levels of phenylalanine can cause severe mental retardation, behavioral disturbances, and other brain and nerve problems. Fortunately, newborn screening programs now identify most cases of PKU in the United States and other countries. Early diagnosis and treatment is the key to reducing or preventing PKU-related conditions.² Gene therapy is currently being researched as a possible cure.³^{, 4} Research is also being conducted on methods to decrease levels of phenylalanine in the blood through the use of certain enzymes⁵ and amino acids.⁶

Symptoms

Infants with PKU may be lethargic, feed poorly, and have a “mousy” odor from their sweat and urine. Eczema, sensitivity to sunlight, and light skin are also characteristic of PKU. Symptoms of children with untreated PKU include significantly diminished mental capacity, hyperactivity, and seizures.

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

Access to PKU resource/support groups, and education of family members may help simplify the complex dietary restrictions and improve one’s ability to follow them.⁷^{, 8}^{, 9}

PKU during pregnancy (maternal PKU) is of particular concern. Excessively high or low levels of phenylalanine may occur during pregnancy, both of which may adversely affect the fetus.¹⁰ Maternal PKU can lead to fetal malformations, including small head size (microcephaly), heart abnormalities, failure to grow properly in the uterus (called intrauterine growth retardation), and mental retardation.¹¹ Adverse effects on the offspring can be reduced and by careful dietary control both prior to and during pregnancy.¹²^{, 13}^{, 14}Consultation and follow-up visits with medical and nutritional specialists are necessary for effective monitoring and dietary guidance in people with PKU.

Eating Right

The right diet is the key to managing many diseases and to improving general quality of life. For this condition, scientific research has found benefit in the following healthy eating tips.

Recommendation	Why
Pass up aspartame	Avoid phenylalanine by steering clear of soft drinks, candy, and other foods and drinks sweetened with aspartame (NutraSweet). There is debate about whether it is safe for people with PKU to consume aspartame, a low-calorie sweetener that contains about 50% phenylalanine. In one study, blood levels of phenylalanine increased only slightly after people with PKU ingested a 12-ounce soft drink sweetened with aspartame. However, that study did not address long-term effects of regular aspartame consumption. Until more is known, it is prudent for people with PKU to completely avoid aspartame-containing beverages and foods.
Monitor amino acids in your diet	Work with your healthcare provider and a nutritionist to maintain a nutritious phenylalanine-restricted diet, which usually means eliminating high-protein foods, such as dairy products, eggs, fish, meats, poultry, legumes, and nuts. PKU can be controlled by a diet low in phenylalanine. The greatest benefits are achieved when the diet is started in the first few days of life, although later treatment will still help to reduce the severity of PKU-related conditions. Maintaining low phenylalanine levels through dietary control improves muscle control and behavioral and intellectual function. The effects of elevated phenylalanine appear to be less severe in older children and adults than in newborns and young children, in whom the nervous system is still developing. This, combined with the difficulties inherent in following a strict lifelong diet, have caused researchers to examine whether the dietary regimen may be relaxed as children get older. While some research suggests that relaxation of dietary measures may not be harmful, this has not been found to be true in all studies. Therefore, more research is needed to resolve this issue. In a survey of 111 PKU treatment centers, 87% favored lifelong dietary restriction of phenylalanine.The PKU diet is strict, and should be undertaken with the help of a nutritionist and a physician. A PKU diet is low in protein, providing no more than the minimum amount of phenylalanine needed by the body. All high-protein foods, such as dairy products, eggs, fish, meats, poultry, legumes, and nuts, are usually eliminated. Lower protein foods, such as fruits, vegetables and some grain products, are allowed in measured amounts, along with specially prepared phenylalanine-free or nearly phenylalanine-free foods. This diet is supplemented with an amino acid formula to increase protein intake without adding more phenylalanine than is nutritionally required. Phenylalanine levels fluctuate as a consequence of changes in diet, health, and growth; therefore, levels must be checked regularly. A nutrition specialist can also provide information on homemade and specially prepared foods for people with PKU, including infant formulas, low protein pastas, breads, crackers, and other foods. People with PKU who are not following the PKU diet can become deficient in biotin, a water-soluble B vitamin. This is because phenylalanine blocks biotin metabolism. In a controlled study of children with PKU, elevated phenylalanine levels resulted in seborrheic dermatitis caused by biotin deficiency, which was corrected by a return to the phenylalanine-restricted diet.

Recommendation

Why

Pass up aspartame

Avoid phenylalanine by steering clear of soft drinks, candy, and other foods and drinks sweetened with aspartame (NutraSweet).

There is debate about whether it is safe for people with PKU to consume aspartame, a low-calorie sweetener that contains about 50% phenylalanine. In one study, blood levels of phenylalanine increased only slightly after people with PKU ingested a 12-ounce soft drink sweetened with aspartame. However, that study did not address long-term effects of regular aspartame consumption. Until more is known, it is prudent for people with PKU to completely avoid aspartame-containing beverages and foods.

Monitor amino acids in your diet

Work with your healthcare provider and a nutritionist to maintain a nutritious phenylalanine-restricted diet, which usually means eliminating high-protein foods, such as dairy products, eggs, fish, meats, poultry, legumes, and nuts.

PKU can be controlled by a diet low in phenylalanine. The greatest benefits are achieved when the diet is started in the first few days of life, although later treatment will still help to reduce the severity of PKU-related conditions. Maintaining low phenylalanine levels through dietary control improves muscle control and behavioral and intellectual function.

The effects of elevated phenylalanine appear to be less severe in older children and adults than in newborns and young children, in whom the nervous system is still developing. This, combined with the difficulties inherent in following a strict lifelong diet, have caused researchers to examine whether the dietary regimen may be relaxed as children get older. While some research suggests that relaxation of dietary measures may not be harmful, this has not been found to be true in all studies. Therefore, more research is needed to resolve this issue. In a survey of 111 PKU treatment centers, 87% favored lifelong dietary restriction of phenylalanine.The PKU diet is strict, and should be undertaken with the help of a nutritionist and a physician.

A PKU diet is low in protein, providing no more than the minimum amount of phenylalanine needed by the body. All high-protein foods, such as dairy products, eggs, fish, meats, poultry, legumes, and nuts, are usually eliminated. Lower protein foods, such as fruits, vegetables and some grain products, are allowed in measured amounts, along with specially prepared phenylalanine-free or nearly phenylalanine-free foods. This diet is supplemented with an amino acid formula to increase protein intake without adding more phenylalanine than is nutritionally required.

Phenylalanine levels fluctuate as a consequence of changes in diet, health, and growth; therefore, levels must be checked regularly. A nutrition specialist can also provide information on homemade and specially prepared foods for people with PKU, including infant formulas, low protein pastas, breads, crackers, and other foods.

People with PKU who are not following the PKU diet can become deficient in biotin, a water-soluble B vitamin. This is because phenylalanine blocks biotin metabolism. In a controlled study of children with PKU, elevated phenylalanine levels resulted in seborrheic dermatitis caused by biotin deficiency, which was corrected by a return to the phenylalanine-restricted diet.

Supplements

What Are Star Ratings?

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

3 Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.

2 Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.

1 Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Supplement	Why
2 Stars Branched-Chain Amino Acids Take under medical supervision: 150 mg daily per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight each of valine and isoleucine, and 200 mg daily per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight of leucine	Regular use of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) may improve mental functioning. In a double-blind trial, regular use of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) (i.e., valine, isoleucine, and leucine) by adolescents and young adults with PKU improved performance on some tests of mental functioning.Participants received either placebo, or 150 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight each of valine and isoleucine, and 200 mg per 2.2 pounds of body of leucine, taken with meals and at bedtime. Participants received one mixture or the other for four three-month periods, for a total of six months’ supplementation of each regimen over the course of a year.
2 Stars Fish Oil 125 mg of oil or 15 mg of docosahexaenoic acid per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight daily	The PKU diet is low in fatty acids, some of which are essential for proper brain development. Supplementing with fish oil may improve the deficiency. The PKU diet is low in fatty acids, some of which are essential for proper brain development. In one controlled study of children with PKU who were deficient in fatty acids, supplementation with fish oil (but not with black currant seed oil) for six months improved the deficiency. The children received 500 mg of oil per 8.8 pounds of body weight each day for 6 months. The amount varied from 5–8 capsules (each containing 500 mg) per day for each child. In another study, fish oil supplementation (providing 15 mg of docosahexaenoic acid per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day) improved body coordination and fine motor skills in children with PKU.
2 Stars L-Tyrosine Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner	Supplementing with L-Tyrosine may help prevent a deficiency caused by the PKU diet and improve behavoir. PKU results from a deficiency or malfunction of the enzyme, phenylalanine hydroxylase, which converts phenylalanine to . People with PKU have elevated concentrations of phenylalanine and low levels of L-tyrosine, which may contribute to behavior problems. In addition, low L-tyrosine levels in women with PKU may contribute to fetal damage. In some, but not all, double-blind studies, keeping L-tyrosine levels in the normal range by adding supplemental L-tyrosine to the diet improved behavior. In a preliminary study, blood L-tyrosine levels fluctuated significantly in people with PKU, suggesting a need for careful laboratory monitoring of people supplementing with L-tyrosine.
2 Stars Selenium Adolescents and adults: 55 mcg daily; for infants and children: 15 to 40 mcg daily, according to age	Selenium deficiency may develop on the PKU diet, and supplementation may help correct this. People with PKU may be deficient in several nutrients, due to the restricted diet which is low in protein and animal fat. Deficiencies of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs),selenium,vitamin B12, and vitamin K may develop on this diet. Selenium is important for normal antioxidant function. Research suggests that selenium deficiency and decreased antioxidant activity may contribute to the brain and nerve disorders associated with PKU. In two preliminary studies involving selenium-deficient people with PKU, supplementation with selenium in the form of sodium selenite corrected the deficiency, whereas supplementation with selenium in the form of selenomethionine did not.
1 Star Vitamin K Refer to label instructions	People with PKU may be deficient in vitamin K, due to the restricted PKU diet. Supplementing with vitamin K may correct a deficiency. People with PKU may be deficient in several nutrients, due to the restricted diet which is low in protein and animal fat. Deficiencies of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs),selenium,vitamin B12, and vitamin K may develop on this diet. Because the PKU diet is low in animal products, fat intake is also significantly reduced. The results of a preliminary study of children with PKU suggested that the low-fat PKU diet intake may impair the absorption of vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin, from the diet, possibly resulting in a vitamin K deficiency. In that study, children with PKU on a strict diet had low levels of certain vitamin K-dependent proteins needed for normal blood clotting.

References

1. Diamond A. Evidence for the importance of dopamine for prefrontal cortex functions early in life. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 1996;351:1483-93 [review].

2. Cabalska MB, Nowaczewska I, Sendecka E, Zorska K. Longitudinal study on early diagnosis and treatment of phenylketonuria in Poland. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S53-5.

3. Eisensmith RC, Woo SL. Gene therapy for phenylketonuria. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S16-9 [review].

4. Lin CM, Tan Y, Lee YM, et al. Expression of human phenylalanine hydroxylase activity in T lymphocytes of classical phenylketonuria children by retroviral-mediated gene transfer. J Inherit Metab Dis 1997;20:742-54.

5. Sarkissian CN, Shao Z, Blain F, et al. A different approach to treatment of phenylketonuria: phenylalanine degradation with recombinant phenylalanine ammonia lyase. Proc Natl Acad Sci 1999;96:2339-44.

6. Pietz J, Kreis R, Rupp A, et al. Large neutral amino acids block phenylalanine transport into brain tissue in patients with phenylketonuria. J Clin Invest 1999;103:1169-78.

7. Waisbren SE, Rokni H, Bailey I, et al. Social factors and the meaning of food in adherence to medical diets: results of a maternal phenylketonuria summer camp. J Inherit Metab Dis 1997;20:21-7.

8. Scheibenreiter S, Tiefenthaler M, Hinteregger V, et al. Austrian report on longitudinal outcome in phenylketonuria. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S45-9.

9. Weglage J, Funders B, Ullrich K, et al. Psychosocial aspects in phenylketonuria. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S101-4.

10. Brenton DP, Lilburn M. Maternal phenylketonuria. A study from the United Kingdom. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S177-80.

11. Levy HL, Ghavami M. Maternal phenylketonuria: a metabolic teratogen. Teratology 1996;53:176-84 [review].

12. Cechak P, Hejcmanova L, Rupp A. Long-term follow-up of patients treated for phenylketonuria (PKU). Results from the Prague PKU Center. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S59-63.

13. Cipcic-Schmidt S, Trefz FK, Funders B, et al. German Maternal Phenylketonuria Study. Eur J Pediatr 1996;155 Suppl 1:S173-6.

14. Rouse B, Azen C, Koch R, et al. Maternal Phenylketonuria Collaborative Study (MPKUCS) offspring: facial anomalies, malformations, and early neurological sequelae. Am J Med Genet 1997;69:89-95.

About This Condition

About

About This Condition

Symptoms

Healthy Lifestyle Tips

Eating Right

The right diet is the key to managing many diseases and to improving general quality of life. For this condition, scientific research has found benefit in the following healthy eating tips.

Supplements

References

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