Galactose and lactose free milk substitutes and foods should be used. Women who carry the genetic trait should also follow the diet since galactose may cause mental retardation to the fetus. Contact a Registered Dietitian for complete information on a galactose free diet. Typically the disease is found shortly after birth and is characterized by maple syrup odor of the urine, vomiting , refusal to eat , and increased reflex actions. If left untreated, life-threatening neurological damage may result.
Treatment includes a special diet.
Strict compliance is necessary to prevent neurological damage. A rare genetic disorder that can result in sever progressive mental retardation if untreated by diet. Most states require blood or urine testing for PKU is all newborns. A low phenylalanine diet is required. Strict compliance to the diet is necessary to reduce or prevent mental retardation.