It may be easier than you think to return to a low-protein PKU diet. Whether you're looking to get back to the diet or improve it, here are some practical tips to help you get started.
1. Seek support from family and friends
It is essential to have a support network. Talk to your family and friends about your dietary needs and your goal for returning to your diet. By sharing this, you create a team that helps you on your diet journey. Support from those around you makes it easier to stick to your diet and achieve your goals.
2. Seek professional advice
A dietitian can help you get back on your PKU diet. Contact your treating dietician and make an appointment. The dietitian will work with you to create a personal plan that matches your lifestyle and dietary needs. Professional guidance ensures that you take the right steps.
3. Discover new and tasty options
The market for protein substitutes has become increasingly innovative. Find a PKU protein substitute that suits your taste and lifestyle. A dietitian can help you choose the right products so that your diet is both effective and enjoyable. Look for tasty options that you can easily integrate into your daily routine.
4. Connect with other PKU people
It can be incredibly motivating to connect with others who have PKU. Join a Facebook group or attend a PKU event or conference. Sharing experiences and tips with others can help you stay motivated and achieve your diet goals.
5. Fall in love with fruits and vegetables
A large part of the PKU diet consists of fruits and vegetables. Discover new varieties at the local market and try out new recipes. Nutricia Metabolics offers a lot of inspiration through their recipe pages. By being creative with your meals, you can enjoy healthy, varied foods that fit your diet.
6. Take the time for changes
Changes to your diet can take time. There is no need to change everything at once. Take the time to make adjustments one step at a time that will produce lasting results. You don't have to change everything overnight; routine and permanent lifestyle adjustments are the most important.
7. Don't give up, keep trying
It's normal to deviate from your diet from time to time, especially when you're busy. Life can be hectic at times, but don't give up. Keep trying; Eventually, it becomes a routine that you can easily maintain.
Inspiration: How PKU Brendan manages his diet
Brendan, a 38-year-old accountant from the UK, shares his daily routine for managing his PKU diet: "I take a mix of PKU Lophlex* products that give me variety, choice and flexibility." In the morning, depending on my mood, I choose Lophlex Sensation (berry flavor)* or 2 bags of Juicy Berry or Citrus* (both 10s). Mid-morning and afternoon at work I take a bag of Juicy Berry*, and 2 more bags for dinner. The variants with 10 protein equivalent are perfect for me to spread over the day, and I can easily take it with me when traveling abroad."
PKU Lophlex is a Food for Special Purposes for the dietary management of proven phenylketonuria (PKU). For enteral use only. Nutricia GMP based protein substitutes contain 18 milligrams of phenylalanine per 10 grams of protein equivalent. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Use with caution in children aged 3-6 years. Not suitable as a sole source of nutrition.
