Food thickeners are designed to be added to food or beverages that are difficult to swallow. Specially designed to help people with dysphagia or swallowing disorders eat and drink normal food, these additives are the perfect solution to make thin food more thick and easier to swallow.
People with dysphagia often require diet modifications in order to safely eat and drink a food or beverage, and thickening can be a great alternative to food puree. It helps promote a positive relationship with food, and decreases the frustration of having to eat baby food puree as an adult.
Free Shipping
Free Shipping
Free Shipping
Free ShippingWhat are food thickeners?
Medical food thickeners are specifically formulated with cornstarch-based, gum-based, or gel/pectin-based foundations. These substances help to increase the viscosity of a liquid, which makes it easier to manage in the mouth and less likely to be aspirated, or get into the lungs.
Why use food thickeners?
People who have difficulty swallowing thin liquids will often need to drink thickened liquids to help prevent choking. Individuals with swallowing disorders or challenges will often require assistance swallowing due to reduced muscle tone in the mouth and esophagus, along with other physical changes that can affect a person’s ability to safely swallow thin liquids.
Most therapists measure liquids on the following scale of thickness:
Thin Liquid - Thin liquids are what most people think of when they think of a beverage or broth. This is the thickness of water, juice, soda, and most other liquids.
Nectar Thick – Nectar thickness is the next step up from thin liquids. This is the consistency of fruit nectars and cream soups. While the liquid is thick and more viscous, it is easily pourable.
Honey Thick – Honey thick is the step above nectar, defined by the thickness of honey or corn syrup. It can be poured, but is much more viscous and slow-moving.
Pudding Thick – This is the highest level of liquid thickness, featuring the thickness of a pudding. These liquids cannot be poured, hold their shape, and are usually eaten with a spoon.
Know the best thickness for yourself or the individual using food thickeners. If the liquid is too thick, a thinner consistency liquid can be added to reduce the thickness. If the liquid consistency is too thin, then add small amounts of the thickener until the correct consistency is achieved. It is better to drink a liquid that is too thick than too thin, so try not to ‘under thicken’ liquids.
