58.3k views
5 votes
At birth, sam was found to have a genetically-induced lack of an enzyme. he is placed on a diet, which includes not eating any foods containing aspartame. this diet will help prevent the development of an intellectual disability. sam most likely has which condition?

User Goldsky
by
6.3k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Sam is suffering from Phenylketonuria. The hereditary disorder causes the level of Phenylalanine in the body to increase. Phenylalanine is obtained from protein foods and a range of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame. If a person's blood contains high levels of Phenylalanine, intellectual disability can arise.





User Lou Morda
by
5.8k points