Many older adults and individuals with disabilities face challenges when it comes to chewing and swallowing. While these issues are common, they can impact proper nutrition. Using purees, thickeners, and thickened foods can make mealtimes easier by altering the consistency of food and drinks, making swallowing safer and more manageable. Thickeners can also lower the risk of choking and aspiration.
How Do I Know If I Need Purees, Thickeners, or Thickened Foods?
Purees, thickeners, and thickened foods are beneficial for individuals who have difficulty chewing or swallowing. They are especially helpful for those who have:
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Age-related swallowing challenges (e.g., muscle weakness)
- Head or neck cancer
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Multiple sclerosis
- Narrow esophagus
- Cancer
- Neurological disorders affecting muscle control (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis)
Additionally, purees, thickeners, and thickened foods may be recommended for individuals with missing teeth or dentures, as they are easier to chew.
How Do I Choose Purees, Thickeners, or Thickened Foods?
Selecting the right purees, thickeners, or thickened foods can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors can simplify the process. Dr. Ramit Singh Sambyal, an emergency medicine physician specializing in dysphagia management, advises considering these three aspects:
1. Taste and Texture
“Prioritize your loved one’s preferences,” Dr. Sambyal recommends. “Try various brands and flavors to find options that are pleasant to eat.”
2. Nutritional Value
“Select enriched foods or add nutrient powders to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals,” he suggests. Many pureed foods are formulated to provide balanced nutrition, making them suitable for individuals who need additional support in their diet.
3. Consistency
“Choose purees that are smooth in texture,” Dr. Sambyal advises. “Chunky or fibrous purees can be difficult to swallow and increase the risk of choking.” If a puree is too chunky, blend it further or add water to smooth it out.
Understanding Thickness Levels: Nectar, Honey, and Pudding
Thickened foods and purees come in three consistency levels: nectar, honey, and pudding. The right consistency depends on the severity of the swallowing difficulty.
- Nectar-Thick Purees: These have a thin, liquid-like consistency, akin to watered-down honey. They are ideal for individuals who need only minimal thickening to swallow safely.
- Honey-Thick Purees: Slightly thicker than nectar, these purees have a texture similar to applesauce. They work best for people with moderate swallowing difficulties.
- Pudding-Thick Purees: These are thick, scoopable purees with a texture similar to mashed potatoes. They are best for individuals with severe dysphagia.
Types of Purees, Thickeners, and Thickened Foods
Pureed Meals & Sides
Pureed meals and sides feature a smooth, lump-free texture, making them easy to swallow. Since the food is already broken down, little to no chewing is necessary. While some caregivers prefer homemade purees, ready-to-eat, prepacked purees offer convenience, providing nutritious meals in minutes.
Best For:
- Individuals with dysphagia
- Those with dentures or missing teeth
- People who are too frail or ill to chew
The pureed meals and sides offered by Zushki are designed to be rich in calories, fats, and proteins, ensuring balanced nutrition.