The Diet

Maternal PKU effects can be prevented: all one has to do is follow the correct diet, drink the formula and gain weight. Simple, right? Unfortunately, anything but.

The Formula

Because a woman with PKU cannot process the amino acid phenylalanine, she must limit her intake of proteins , which are made of amino acids. Amino acids are an essential part of growth, and therefore have to be ingested in some other form. This is where the formula comes in. Made of all the amino acids except phenylalanine, the formula provides the necessary proteins needed for a healthy baby. Without the formula, nothing you or your Daughter does will work. The formula is essential to having a healthy baby. Your Resource Daughter should know the importance of drinking the formula. The problem is getting her to drink it regularly. Be optimistic and creative in trying to get a schedule going. Remember, do not expect everything to happen at once. Take things one step at a time, and a small step at that. Work with your Daughter to understand her individual needs, her schedule, her preferences. Formula comes in many forms: bars, drink mix, capsules, and tablets. If your Daughter is having difficulty taking the formula, notify the PKU clinic.

Restricting PHE Intake

Every woman can handle a different amount of phenylalanine. However, phenylalanine blood levels should stay between 2-6 mg/dl during pregnancy. Talk to your Daughter's nutritionist to find out what she can handle.

Weight Gain

A woman with PKU must eat for two, gaining weight like any other pregnant mother. Because of the diet limitations, weight gain is often promoted by championing sugars and fats to your Daughter. Encourage her to buy regular foods low in protein, avoiding low-fat, low-cal options. Some things to try are: fried foods, butter, mayonnaise, Cool Whip, non-dairy creamers, canned frosting, salad dressing, olive oils. Special low protein products, such as cookies, pizzas, and baked goods are also great sources for calories.