Dietary Guidelines

Below is a list of dietary guidelines that some families follow. However, always consult a dietitian who specializes in metabolic disorders and can design a modified dietary plan that a child will need to follow. We encourage families to gather all information available from clinics to make the best decisions.

Unacceptable Ingredients

A person with galactosemia must avoid foods containing dairy products. It is imperative that families double-check every label on food packaging, as actual products may change over time.

Ingredients that must be avoided:

  • Cow's milk
  • Nonfat milk
  • Nonfat dry milk (including solids)
  • Butter
  • Buttermilk
  • Yogurt
  • Cheese (exceptions include Jarlsberg, Gruyere, Emmentaler, Swiss, Tilster, grated 100% Parmesan, Parmesan aged >10 months, and sharp Cheddar cheese aged >12 months)
  • Ice cream
  • Casein
  • Curds
  • Cream
  • Whey (including hydrolyzed forms as in canned meats and solids)
  • Dry milk (including protein and solids)
  • Lactose
  • Lactalbumin
  • Lactoglobulin
  • Lactostearin
  • Margarine
  • Sherbert
  • Sour cream

Foods Safe in Moderation

Assuming a child is on a galactose-restricted diet, the following solid foods are safe to eat by 4-6 months of age:

  • Organ meats (including beef, poultry, and egg)
  • Fermented soy products
  • Soy sauce
  • Ghee
  • Most fruits, vegetables, and grains

Calcium Supplements

Children with galactosemia may have low calcium levels due to the restriction of milk products. Taking calcium supplements in addition to Vitamin D every day may be recommended if natural sources are not enough. Always consult with the child's nutritionist before using any medications or supplements.

General Information about Dietary Restrictions

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Treatment Guidelines

  • Therapy

    Though the only treatment for galactosemia is avoiding foods with lactose and galactose, different types of therapy can also help address a child's unique academic, behavioral, and social needs.

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  • Clinical Resources

    The International Galactosemia Network has published clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of classic galactosemia.

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  • Diagnosis

    Galactosemia is often challenging to diagnose because physical symptoms may not be present immediately after birth. Newborn screening and genetic tests are thus crucial because the earlier galactosemia is identified, the less likely a child will have irreversible complications.

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