Infants with PKU typically require which type of formula?

Infants with PKU typically require which type of formula?

• A. Regular cow's milk formula
• B. High phenylalanine formula
• C. Special low-phenylalanine formula
• D. Soy formula with added phenylalanine

Answer: (C)

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder in which phenylalanine cannot be properly metabolized, so it can build up and harm the developing brain. To prevent that, infants with PKU are fed a special low-phenylalanine formula that provides all essential nutrients without or with very little phenylalanine. Regular cow’s milk formula contains noticeable amounts of phenylalanine, and formulas described as high-phenylalanine or soy formulas with added phenylalanine would add more of the amino acid instead of limiting it. The goal is to supply adequate calories and protein while restricting phenylalanine intake, with ongoing monitoring of phenylalanine levels.

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder in which phenylalanine cannot be properly metabolized, so it can build up and harm the developing brain. To prevent that, infants with PKU are fed a special low-phenylalanine formula that provides all essential nutrients without or with very little phenylalanine. Regular cow’s milk formula contains noticeable amounts of phenylalanine, and formulas described as high-phenylalanine or soy formulas with added phenylalanine would add more of the amino acid instead of limiting it. The goal is to supply adequate calories and protein while restricting phenylalanine intake, with ongoing monitoring of phenylalanine levels.