Question

: Peg from Ohio asks: I am looking for some menus or helpful hints for feeding a patient with swallowing problems. Any ideas?

Answer

Swallowing problems can vary so do not take this as individual advice for your situation. Consult the physician regarding results of the swallowing evaluation. Also it is helpful to work with a speech pathologist and dietitian to determine the "textures" that are appropriate for your patient. Foods and beverages frequently need to be modified with swallowing disorders. Often thin liquids like water or juice pose a greater choking hazard than thicker liquids like shakes. There are commercial thickeners that can be added to all types of foods to decrease the chances of choking. For example, in a stroke where someone chokes on liquids, the thickeners can be used to create a texture that is easier to swallow. The thickeners also make it possible to create a pureed diet that looks more appealing than the traditional "baby food". I once did a lab with college students where we even pureed spaghetti and meatballs, added thickeners, and then used a pastry bag to recreate "pureed" spaghetti and meatballs" that looked like the real thing! Making the food visually appealing is an important part of encouraging intake when there are swallowing problems. Again, consult with the health care team of your patient to determine the textures that will decrease the risk of choking. Once you know these textures, work with a dietitian to determine the type and quantity of food needed to meet nutritional needs.