PKU directory - PKU information sources and services

Looking for a PKU specialist, dietitian or nutritionist, supplier, or PKU association in your area? Discover them here.

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Facts

I’m planning a gap year with my best friend, who has Phenylketonuria (PKU). She hates any fuss being made about her disorder, but I’m worried that her wellbeing could become an issue while we’re away. We plan to visit some fairly remote parts of the world. Is there anything I should know about her disorder?

Ultimately her health is her responsibility, although you can provide encouragement

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Is medication part of a treatment option available for everyone?

Your PKU specialist will be able to perform the appropriate test to determine if the

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Adults with PKU: live the life of your dreams

Phenylketonuria or PKU affects the body’s ability to break down Phenylalanine (Phe), an amino acid found in food proteins. High Phe levels in the blood may trigger brain-related problems throughout life. It may become harder to think; reaction times may slow down, or you may become more emotional or anxious.
Phenylketonuria or PKU affects the body’s ability to break down Phenylalanine (Phe), an amino acid found in food proteins. High Phe levels in the blood may trigger brain-related problems throughout life. It may become harder to think; reaction times may slow down, or you may become more emotional or anxious.

Facts for adults with PKU 

Phenylketonuria or PKU affects the body’s ability to break down Phenylalanine (Phe), an amino acid found in food proteins. High Phe levels in the blood may trigger brain-related problems throughout life. It may become harder to think; reaction times may slow down, or you may become more emotional or anxious.   

The higher blood Phenylalanine (Phe) levels, the more difficult it is to meet life’s challenges. Managing blood Phe levels requires careful meal planning. Careful meal planning requires clear thought. Staying on track with a low protein diet allows for better blood Phe control. 

Higher blood Phenylalanine (Phe) levels may lower intelligence and response times; lead to irritability, anxiety and depression; result in an inability to focus or pay attention and cause eczema. 

Understanding the nature of PKU is essential to its successful management. Your PKU specialist can update you on treatment plans to achieve optimum brain function.

Being the person you were meant to be: the importance of PKU treatment for adults

Discover how understanding more about Phenylketonuria (PKU) can help you beat it and why maintaining low blood Phenylalanine (Phe) levels is important to the emotional and intellectual wellbeing of adults with PKU. 

Also see The science of PKU for a medical explanation of PKU.