LowproteinLIVING

Stage 1 - First Tastes
(around 4-6 months)

At this stage the phenylalanine free formula (e.g. XP Analog or XP Analog LCP) will be providing most of your baby’s nutritional needs.

Daily phenylalanine requirements will be provided by a measured amount of standard infant formula or breast milk.

The first solids offered are usually ‘free foods’. Free foods are foods which contain such a small amount of phenylalanine that they do not need to be counted as part of the daily phenylalanine intake. So it doesn’t matter if they are refused or spit out!

First solids should be bland, easy to swallow and easy to digest. Initially, the consistency should be a smooth, runny puree. Your baby can progress to a thicker purée when they become used to the runny texture.

Don’t Rush Me!!

At first, only very small amounts of food should be offered, about 1-2 teaspoons at a single meal. Too much food to begin with may result in tummy ache. Gradually, as this small amount is accepted, more food can be offered.

When your baby is taking a reasonable amount of solids at a single meal (about 6-10 teaspoons or 1⁄2 jar*), solids can be introduced at a second meal in the day and then at a third.

Homemade purées are cheap and easy to make. Fruit and vegetables can be cooked in a small amount of water until soft and then puréed using a hand blender or food processor. Salt or sugar should not be added to homemade purées.

Batches of purées can be made up all at once. This will save time by not having to prepare small amounts of fresh food every day. Puréed food not needed for immediate use can be stored in an airtight container in a fridge for 24 hours, or can be frozen in an ice cube tray. After defrosting, purées can be reheated over a pan of hot water.

Ready prepared jars of purée can be very convenient when time is limited and only very small amounts are being used*.

Tips

• All purées and low protein foods can be softened with water, phenylalanine free formula (e.g. XP Analog or XP Analog LCP) or low protein milk replacers (ask your dietitian for suitable milk replacers)

• Try mixing different combinations of purées for variety e.g. sweet potato and carrot, or apple and pear

• Refer to recipe booklet for suitable recipes

* Refer to NSPKU handbook or dietitian for suitable brands
Stage 2 - Moving On