Mateo is on a strict diet because his parents are aware that he cannot metabolize a certain amino acid.Buildup of this amino acid in his system could result in mental retardation.Mateo has:

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Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder in which the body cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. If left untreated, the buildup of phenylalanine can cause mental retardation, seizures, and other serious health problems. PKU can be managed by following a strict low-phenylalanine diet, which is likely the diet Mateo is on. Down syndrome (A) is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, and is not related to metabolism of amino acids. Sickle-cell anemia (C) is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of red blood cells, and is not related to amino acid metabolism. Huntington disease (D) is a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, and is not related to amino acid metabolism.

Mateo Is on a Strict Diet Because His Parents Are