As people grow older, their bodies undergo many changes. Some of these changes can impact our ability to swallow and digest food properly. Many seniors can suffer from dysphagia. This can lead to difficulty swallowing, choking, aspiration pneumonia, and malnutrition.
What are food thickeners used for?
Food thickeners are substances that increase the viscosity of liquids. They can be added to many different foods and beverages to thicken them up, such as soups, purees, juices, and even water. They work by altering the texture of food and making it easy to swallow and control.
Starch-based vs. gum-based
There are two common types of thickeners, starch-based and gum-based. There is no one size fits all, so it’s important to work out what suits you.
Starch-based thickeners, such as cornstarch or potato starch, are commonly used in cooking and baking to thicken sauces, gravies, and puddings. They are also used in some medical nutrition products for dysphagia, as they create a smooth, uniform texture that is easy to swallow.
Gum-based thickeners, such as xanthan gum or guar gum, are derived from natural sources and are often used as alternatives to starch-based thickeners. They offer several advantages, such as increased stability over a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, as well as improved mouthfeel and texture.
What steps can you take?
For seniors with dysphagia, food thickeners can be a game-changer. They allow seniors to enjoy a wider variety of foods and beverages, reducing the risk of malnutrition and improving their quality of life. Thickened foods with Simply Thick honey consistency can also help reduce the risk of aspiration.
Aspiration is a serious complication of dysphagia in which food or liquid enters the lungs instead of the stomach.
While some opt for food thickeners, others may opt for a soft diet. This usually consists of a diet of foods that are soft and moist. This includes items like broth, gravy, milk, juices, and soups. Food that is not soft and moist enough may need to be blended or mashed.
In addition to a change of diet, it’s a good idea to practice specific swallowing techniques or exercises. It is important to work with a healthcare professional or speech therapist to determine the best course of action for a senior’s individual needs.
Handle with care
When using food thickeners to aid seniors with their nutrition, you must follow the correct storage and preparation instructions. Not doing so could affect the safety and effectiveness of a product. Usually, thickeners should be added gradually and stirred vigorously to ensure they are evenly distributed and that you have reached the desired level of thickness.
Food thickeners play an important role in senior nutrition, especially for those with dysphagia. However, it’s important to take the right approach based on an individual’s needs while also procuring the advice of a healthcare professional. It would be best if you also aimed to follow proper preparation and storage procedures to ensure safety and effectiveness. With the right approach, food thickeners can be an important tool in improving the health and well-being of seniors.
