For parents, having a child with swallowing difficulties (also known as dysphagia) can be a worrisome experience. Encouraging children to eat can be a challenging task at the best of times, but if they struggle with certain textures and consistencies, finding the right food that is both safe and suitable to their taste can feel like an impossible feat.
Here are a few top tips to encourage children with swallowing difficulties to develop healthy eating habits.
First, what is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a condition characterized by discomfort or difficulty in swallowing. This includes swallowing food, liquid, and even saliva. This condition occurs as a symptom of an underlying problem, and it can affect individuals of all ages at different stages of their life. The severity can also differ depending on the root cause and the type of dysphagia.
Swallowing difficulties can be caused by a variety of factors, such as structural abnormalities in the throat or esophagus, neurological disorders, medication, or muscular conditions.
Symptoms of dysphagia can include discomfort or pain when trying to swallow, coughing and choking while swallowing, having the feeling of an object stuck in the throat, and even having difficulty initiating the process of swallowing.
Create a Supportive Environment
Providing a supportive eating environment is essential for children with swallowing difficulties. Create a relaxed atmosphere during mealtimes by taking away distractions such as electronic devices, and encouraging members of the family to dine together will make mealtimes more social and will also promote a sense of normalcy and social interaction.
Try to celebrate milestones, however small, to reinforce positive dining experiences.
Create Tasty Meals with Herbs and Spices
When it comes to crafting tasty meals, herbs and spices can make a huge impact. People with certain types of dysphagia may find it difficult to smell or taste food, and so adding aromatic ingredients to dishes can help improve the overall eating experience.
Take the time to try out new cuisines that feature aromatics. From fresh basil in tomato soup to making broth more fragrant with a pinch of spice, there are plenty of ways you can incorporate fresh and dried ingredients into your meals.
In addition to taste, some children struggle with swallowing certain textures. If this sounds familiar, try creating different consistencies with SimplyThick thickening products. Before trying out new products, however, make sure you consult a healthcare professional.
Experiment with Temperature
As well as taste and textures, some individuals with dysphagia find it easier to consume foods and liquids when they are at a certain temperature. Experiment with temperatures to see if this applies to your child. For instance, you can try serving them a warm, pureed meal followed by a chilled pudding.
Involve Your Child in Meal Preparation
Involving your child in meal preparation can make mealtimes more fun and will give them a sense of ownership over what they eat. Depending on their ability and age, you can empower them by giving them age-appropriate tasks, such as measuring ingredients or washing vegetables.
A level of involvement in the cooking process can boost their interest in the meals they are helping to prepare, which might make them more willing to try out new foods.
