Description
A galactosaemia diet essentially eliminates galactose from the diet (Sharon R. R. & Kathryn P. & Ellie W., 2009). Plasma galactose-1-phosphate level should be kept below 3 to 4 mg/ 100 ml, while containing enough nutrients for normal body function (Judith F.K. & Lora B. & M.H. & Richard S., 2011). The diet allows most protein-containing foods other than milk and milk products. Fruits, vegetables, grains, breads, fats and sugars which do not consist of ingredients that contain galactose are acceptable. Some fruit and vegetables contain small amounts of bound galactose, which is not usable by the body and may not contribute to elevated blood galactose-1-phosphate.
Alternative names for the galactosaemia diet …show more content…
Serious liver damage can develop and progress to symptomatic cirrhosis. Other complications may include liver failure, cataracts, and brain damage. Treatment in first few weeks of life can prevent the most detrimental effects of galactose accumulation, but if treatment is delayed, the damage to the brain is irreversible (Sharon Rady Rofles & Kathryn Pinna & Ellie Whitney, 2009).
Galactosaemia is treated through dietary restrictions. People with the disorder must avoid foods and beverages containing lactose, which is made up of galactose and glucose. The main focus of dietary treatment is the exclusion of milk and milk products. Other examples include organ meats and legumes (Genetic Science Learning Center, 2012). With continued dietary management, many individuals with galactosaemia enjoy good health, and are able to lead independent lives (Sharon Rady Rofles & Kathryn Pinna & Ellie Whitney, 2009).
Diet-disease …show more content…
Full fat soy drinks are equivalent in energy and protein to full cream milk. Cereal based drinks, however, may provide inadequate protein and energy intake for young children, putting them at risk of growth retardation.
Additionally, soy infant formulas are not indicated for use as a preventative formula for infants at risk of developing food allergies because of the allergenicity of soy (Susan Thompson & Merryn Netting, 2010).
Calcium from fortified soy milk has lower bioavailability as compared to cow milk. Those who choose fortified soy milk as their primary source of calcium may need to drink more to ensure they are getting their daily supply of this essential mineral. In fact, it takes about 500 mg of calcium in the fortified soy milk to equal 300 mg of calcium in cow milk, while unfortified soy milk contains about 10 mg of calcium per serving (WebMD, 2000).
Bone density has been reported to be low in children and women with galactosaemia. Potential mechanisms are abnormal levels of sex hormones, low calcium intake and possibly an intrinsic defect in the normal galactosylation of the collagen matrix of bones (Susan Thompson & Merryn Netting,