Spring is a great time to get outside and plan some fun summer adventures. Following a low-protein diet and drinking PKU formula (or other metabolic formulas) should not stand in your way of making fun summer plans or enjoying the warm spring air.
Whether you’re new to an active lifestyle or an experienced adventurer, there’s no better time than now to think about how to safely prepare for added exercise on a special diet such as for PKU, MSUD, HCU or other metabolic conditions.
Here are some tips:
Stay hydrated and Energized
- Proper hydration is essential for overall health and maintaining energy levels. Since whole protein intake is restricted, focus on hydrating beverages such as water, herbal teas, and low-protein fruit juices.
- To boost energy, be sure to drink formula before you go and when you return. Most formula is designed to provide energy without significantly affecting phenylalanine levels (or other amino acids you are looking to avoid, such as methionine for homocystinuria (HCU) or leucine for maple syrup urine disease (MSUD)).
Choose Low-Protein Snacks
Be prepared. Bring snacks that are satisfying yet low in protein. Some great options include:
- Fresh Fruits: Apples, berries, melons, and citrus fruits.
- Vegetables: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
- Low-Pro Tortilla Veggie Wrap: Bundle lettuce, fresh herbs, and other veggies for a quick handheld low-pro snack on the go.
Plan Balanced Meals with Regular formula Intake
Work closely with a metabolic dietitian to create balanced meals that meet your nutritional needs. Focus on:
- Metabolic Formula: Incorporate specialized metabolic formulas recommended by your healthcare team. Be sure to find one you enjoy drinking. Explore Options
- Low-Protein Cooking: Explore recipes that are fun for the summer. Grilling vegetables and fresh fruit on the BBQ is a fun and flavorful way to add variety to your diet in the spring/summer months. Watch the video below to learn more.
- Traveling: Check out restaurant websites at your travel destination in advance. Call head to see if they will allow outside low pro pasta or other foods. Check out this guide to dining out on a low protein diet by Nutricia. View Guide
Prioritize Low-Impact Exercise
Engage in physical activity that doesn’t strain your muscles excessively. Low-impact exercises are ideal:
- Swimming: Gentle on joints and provides a full-body workout and great way to cool off.
- Walking: A simple yet effective way to stay active.
- Hiking: A bit more strenuous, but scenic way to explore new areas when traveling.
- Yoga or Pilates: Enhances flexibility and strength without high impact.
Find a Travel-Friendly Formula
- Ready-to-drink formula is a great way to get protein equivalents and prevent hunger on the go.
- Lophlex® LQ is a pocket-size formula option for PKU, HCU or MSUD that provides 20 g protein equivalent in just 4.2 fl oz.
- Drinking extra water with your formula can help meet your increased hydration goals.
Remember, preparation and collaboration with your metabolic healthcare provider are key elements to managing your low-protein diet effectively. By following these tips, you can maintain an active lifestyle while prioritizing your health and well-being.
Lophlex® LQ is a medical food for the dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU), homocystinuria (HCU), or maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) and must be used under medical supervision. Always consult your metabolic healthcare professional prior to making any changes to your metabolic diet plan.
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