A re-evaluation of life-long severe galactose restriction for the nutrition management of classic galactosemia

Mol Genet Metab. 2014 Jul;112(3):191-7. doi: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.04.004. Epub 2014 May 2.

Abstract

The galactose-restricted diet is life-saving for infants with classic galactosemia. However, the benefit and extent of dietary galactose restriction required after infancy remain unclear and variation exists in practice. There is a need for evidence-based recommendations to better standardize treatment for this disorder. This paper reviews the association between diet treatment and outcomes in classic galactosemia and evaluates the contribution of food sources of free galactose in the diet. Recommendations include allowing all fruits, vegetables, legumes, soy products that are not fermented, various aged cheeses and foods containing caseinates. Further research directions are discussed.

Keywords: Diet treatment; Galactose restriction; Galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency; Inborn errors of metabolism; Lactose.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted*
  • Food
  • Galactose*
  • Galactosemias / diet therapy*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Galactose