Feeding problems in young PKU children

Acta Paediatr Suppl. 1994 Dec:407:73-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.1994.tb13457.x.

Abstract

Behavioural feeding problems were found to be more prevalent in a group of 15 PKU children aged 1-5 years when compared to non-PKU controls. The parents of PKU children identified poorer apatites (p < 0.01), a more limited range of foods consumed (p < 0.03) and more gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and constipation (p < 0.03) than control children. The children were slower to feed (p < 0.03), were more likely to dislike sweet foods and some ate separately from the rest of the family at mealtime (p < 0.03). The effects on normal feeding behaviour should be considered when advocating strict diet therapy for young PKU children.

MeSH terms

  • Case-Control Studies
  • Child Behavior Disorders / etiology*
  • Child Behavior Disorders / prevention & control
  • Child, Preschool
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Food Preferences
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Infant
  • Phenylketonurias / diet therapy*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires