What is the treatment for PKU?
Your baby’s primary doctor will work with a metabolic doctor and a dietician experienced with PKU to care for your child. Prompt treatment is needed to prevent mental retardation. Newborns need to drink a special medical formula. It is still possible to breastfeed your baby as long as you get help from your dietician. Babies who are breastfed usually need the medical formula as well. Most children need to eat a special diet made up of very low-protein foods, special medical foods, and the special formula. You must start the low-Phe diet as soon as you know your child has PKU. Your dietician will create a food plan that contains the right amount of protein, nutrients, and energy to keep your child healthy. The diet should be continued throughout life.
