Hunter syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by reduced production of an enzyme iduronate 2-sulfatase. This enzyme plays an important role in breaking down of the complex molecules. It results in the deposition of complex molecules in various parts of the body. It is caused by the transmission of defective genes through X chromosomes from the mother to her children. Its symptoms include an enlarged head, thick lips, thick nose, chronic diarrhea, aggressive behavior, developmental delay and many more. There is no cure for this disease.
What To Eat When You Have Hunter Syndrome?
Fibers- fibers are the best source of energy and they satisfy hunger and enhance the feeling of fullness in the stomach. The examples of high fibrous food are whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, avocados, etc.
Fruits And Vegetables – fresh fruits and vegetables are rich sources of fibers, simple carbohydrates, and many vitamins and minerals. They are an easy source of energy. Their consumption may help in maintaining sugar levels in the body. They should be fresh and not processed to enjoy its beneficiary effects.
Healthy Salads- salads topped with vinegar, lemon juice, salsa are easy to digest and nutritious. Creamy salad should be avoided as they provide complex fats too.
Omega-3 Fats- omega-3 fats are the most healthy source of energy. They are found in fish oils supplements, soya bean oil, and flaxseeds. Omega 6 fats are commonly found in sunflower oil, corn oil, nuts, canola oil, and olive oil. These fats are unsaturated fats and contribute a lot to the health of the heart.(1)
What To Avoid When You Have Hunter Syndrome?
Unhealthy Fats- Trans fats and saturated fats both are not good for people with Hunter syndrome. They increase complex molecules in the body. Saturated fat is present in animal products and Trans fat is available in cake, cookies, pies and other packed items. For the good health of the heart, these products should be avoided.
Sodium- high quantities of sodium in the diet is not healthy for anyone also for people with Hunter syndrome. It increases blood pressure and may complicate the condition.
Complex Carbohydrates- refined flour, packed food, fried items like french fries, or pizza or burgers can fasten the accumulation of complex molecules in various parts of the body. They should be avoided.(1)
The Right Ways To Eat
Breakfast should be consumed soon after waking up in the morning before 10 am. Breakfast should not be skipped.
Switch to small meals in every 3 to 4 hours to keep the metabolic activities going on. It will keep the energy levels high.
Hunter syndrome or MPS II is one of inherited metabolic disease s that come from X chromosomes passing on from the mother to her children. It affects males more than females. The defective genes on the X chromosomes disturb the production of iduronate 2-sulfatase enzyme. This enzyme is needed to metabolize certain complex carbohydrates and fats. It causes deposition of excess complex carbohydrates into the skeleton, joints, heart, spleen, brain, spinal cord, and liver. It imposes significant damage to these organs.
The symptoms of Hunter syndrome are not present since birth. It develops after 2-4 years of age as a significant amount of complex molecules are deposited in the different parts of the body. These symptoms are an enlarged head, thick lips, hoarse voice, stunted growth, stiff joints, etc. Diet modification may slow down the deposition of complex molecules in the body.(2)
Conclusion
Hunter syndrome leads to the deposition of complex sugar and fat molecules in the body. Diet modification can reduce the pace of deposition of complex molecules in the body. Fibers, fresh fruits, vegetables and others discussed above should be included and sodium, complex carbohydrates, and unhealthy fat should be avoided in Hunter syndrome.
Also Read:
- Lifestyle Changes For Hunter Syndrome
- What Is The Life Expectancy Of A Person With Hunter Syndrome?
- Can Hunter Syndrome Be Reversed & What Is Its Treatment?
- How Is Hunter Syndrome Diagnosed?
- How To Prevent Hunter Syndrome?
- Enzyme Replacement Therapy For Hunter Syndrome
- Hunter Syndrome VS Hurler Syndrome
