What is the purpose of thickened liquids?

Thickened liquids give you better control of the liquid in your mouth. They help slow down the flow rate of liquids, which lessens the chance of liquid going into your airway or “going down the wrong pipe.” Liquids that go into your airway end up in your lungs.

How does thickening liquids help dysphagia?

The rapid rate may be too fast for the patient’s pharyngeal muscles to compensate, thus allowing aspiration. Thickening the liquids is meant to slow the flow of liquids to allow more time for airway closure, which could potentially reduce the risk of aspiration.

What is the meaning of thickened liquids?

Thickened liquids are a medical dietary adjustment that thickens the consistency of fluids in order to prevent choking. Thickened liquids are recommended for individuals who have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and keeping food or liquid from entering their airway.

What are the three types of thickened liquid?

The three consistencies of thickened liquids are:

• Nectar-thick liquids — are easily pourable and comparable to apricot nectar or thicker cream soups.
• Honey-thick liquids — are slightly thicker, less pourable, and drizzle from a cup or bowl.
• Pudding-thick liquids — hold their own shape.

For which condition would a patient require thickened liquids?

Dysphagia is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. Thickened liquids are often used in the management of dysphagia to improve bolus control and to help prevent aspiration.

What makes thick water thick?

Thick & Easy Hydrolyte Thickened Water has a nectar-like consistency and adheres to Level 2 guidelines established by International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). It’s made from water, high fructose corn syrup, and modified food starch and comes pre-mixed, ready to drink.

What is the purpose of thick it?

The Thick-It® brand is dedicated to providing safe and satisfying nutrition solutions for people with dysphagia. Our purées are made with real ingredients and no artificial flavors. Our ready-to-drink beverages are made with real fruit juices, premium coffee, and decaffeinated tea.

How do you mix thickened liquids?

Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of commercial thickener to 1/2 cup of thin liquid. Stir vigorously for 20 seconds. Allow the drink to sit for at least one to two minutes to get the right thickness before serving or drinking. If the liquid is too thick, you can add thin liquid to reduce it to a thinner consistency.

What is Stage 1 thickened fluids?

Level 1 Thick Fluid Thicker than water. • Flows through a straw but only if advised by a Speech and Language Therapist. • Needs a little more effort to drink than thin liquids.

How do you stay hydrated on thickened liquids?

Keeping cool thickened beverages within “arms-reach” is essential but can be a challenge. One solution is to make ice cubes with water that has been thickened to the proper consistency with a xanthan gum thickener like ThickenUp® Clear and then using the ice cubes in drinks in kept within easy reach.

What are the side effects of thick it?

Having taken the thickened liquid challenge (#thickenedliquidchallenge) I can attest to some of the biggest side effects from thickening the fluids that we normally drink: thirst, dry mouth, dehydration, and a feeling of fullness.