Dysphagia, difficulty swallowing, can occur for many reasons, including nerve conditions like Parkinson’s disease. Dysphagia can lead to aspiration issues that can cause choking and pneumonia. Thickened foods and liquids can help reduce the risk of choking and make eating more comfortable for those with dysphagia. Learning about natural food thickeners can help you make the right decision for your loved one’s needs.
Why Should You Use Natural Thickeners?
Natural food thickeners are free from chemical agents and artificial additives. They can help add nutritional value to foods and beverages, provide a more appealing taste and texture, and, in some cases, add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
What Are the Best Natural Thickeners for Dysphagia?
There are many natural thickeners you can use to thicken foods and beverages. It is important to try various ones and assess their level of thickening, taste, and texture. The following are some options if you want to go natural.
Bananas and Avocados
Bananas and avocados have natural thickening properties, making them ideal for smoothies, puddings, and purees. Their creamy texture also makes them easy to blend into other foods. They offer a natural sweetness. Both bananas and avocados are rich in potassium and can help people with dysphagia.
Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes
Cooked and mashed potatoes are also excellent thickeners. You can use them in soups and sauces to create a thicker texture. Mashed sweet potatoes add valuable nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. You can blend mashed potatoes with broth or milk until they are the right consistency.
Oatmeal and Oat Flour
Oatmeal and finely ground oat flour add thickness to foods while offering fiber that can help digestion. A small amount of oat flour can be added to soups to thicken them. They create a smooth, easy-to-swallow consistency that does not alter the flavor.
Chia Seeds and Flax Seeds
Chia and flax seeds absorb moisture, creating a gel-like texture that thickens foods and beverages. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Add chia or flax seeds as thickeners to the food or drink and allow them to sit for at least five minutes to achieve consistency.
Gelatin and Agar-Agar
Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, and agar-agar is a plant-based thickener. Both are excellent thickeners for puddings and soups. They set puddings into a firm yet easy-to-swallow texture. These two natural thickeners are ideal for those who struggle with swallowing liquid foods.
Pumpkin and Squash Puree
Pumpkin and squash can thicken soups without changing the taste, and they add vitamins A and C to any food or beverage. Thus, they enhance the flavor of your soup without overwhelming it.
How to Choose the Right Thickener
The best natural thickener will depend on the type of food or beverage you are thickening. Many people prefer fiber-rich foods, but you have options. It is essential to talk to your doctor or speech therapist to get help with thickening. Choosing the right option and getting help with swallowing therapy can make eating and drinking less stressful.
People with dysphagia often struggle with texture. Some natural thickeners may present texture issues with some individuals. It is helpful to take time to try new thickening agents. Do not rush the process; attempt to keep meal times calm and offer reassurance every step of the way.
