LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for December 2000

Acta Paediatr Suppl 1999-2;432(88):25-27.

Title: "Breastfeeding in phenylketonuria"

Authors: K. Motzfeldt, R. Lilje and G. Nylander

In Norway, recent figures show that today 98-99% of mothers initiate breastfeeding in the hospital, and are well supported in their society and through the generous maternity leave they receive. This paper documents 83 infants born with phenylketonuria in Norway since 1979. Human milk contains a lower content of the amino acid phenylalanine than any infant formula. With the known positive effects of human milk on the developing human brain, it was felt that supplementing human milk with a nutritionally complete protein substitute without phe would be of particular importance to these infants. Dietary treatment began in the hospital, with the supplement being given first, followed by unrestricted breastfeeding. The management of the supplements and breastmilk feeds were regulated carefully, with the child being discharged from the hospital after 7-10 days taking 60% breast milk and 40% protein substitute. Growth fell within normal ranges, with an average duration of 7 months of breastfeeding.