Vegetables and Herbs

• Veggie and ginger stir-fry is a low-protein meal.
  
  People who suffer from PKU are required to eat a special low-protein diet, to prevent levels of phenylalanines from rising in the body. Many foods that are low-protein include several vegetables and fruits like papaya, cucumber, pumpkin, sweet potatoes and broccoli. Most of these foods do contain trace amounts of protein, however, so vegetarian dishes are adequate for people who suffer from this genetic disorder. Herbs are often used in low-protein diets for their flavors and antioxidant capabilities such as ginger root, which is a diuretic, and echinacea, which boosts the immune system. Getting creative and adding different herbs to your low-protein meals is a great way to control your diet while suffering from PKU.
  
  

Meats for Low-Protein Diets

• Chicken soup is good alone, or on potatoes.
  
  Suffering from PKU doesn't necessarily mean a person has to completely eliminate proteins from their diet. Lean meats like fish and chicken can be eaten in moderation. To prepare a tasty meal that has meat in it, use about half a pound of thinly shredded chicken breast meat, and add it to a 1-qt. pot of boiling water. Mix an 8-oz. can of cream of mushroom soup into the water, and throw in an assortment of veggies like diced celery, carrots, onions and potatoes. If you desire a thicker soup, 4 tbsp. of corn starch will thicken it up nicely. Serve on top of mashed potatoes.
  
  

Tips

• Cooking for someone with PKU can introduce you to different flavors and ingredients. Grains are important for nutrients like carbohydrates, and make great alternatives to high-protein foods. Eat plenty of hot and cold cereals as parts of a balanced breakfast, and avoid foods like eggs, legumes and red meat. However, protein is an essential part of human nutrition, and even for someone with phenylketonuria, it is important for the body to get at least small amounts of protein.