Obesity In Adults With PKU.pdf

Newborn screening for Phenylketonuria (PKU) and its treatment with a low phenylalanine diet is a major public health success story, with UK screening beginning in the 1960s. Initially, it was believed that children could stop the low phenylalanine diet after brain growth was complete, but evidence now suggests that people with PKU should remain on the diet for life. High phenylalanine concentrations in adults can affect executive functioning, organizational skills, and mood. A cohort of PKU patients in the UK is now approaching middle adulthood, with similar levels of obesity as the general population. The cause of obesity in PKU patients is speculated to be due to the composition of their diet, which is high in carbohydrates and low in fat and fiber, leading to overeating and poor satiety. Other potential factors include high sugar intake from low-protein foods and sugary drinks, and low fiber intake. Education on healthy exchanges and incorporating more satiating foods into the PKU diet may help with weight management. There may also be a link between metabolic control and obesity, with poor metabolic control associated with a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity.