Once a swallowing assessment has been completed, modified texture diet and/or fluids may be recommended to reduce the risk of food/drink going the wrong way.  The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (below) is used when making these recommendations.

Thickened fluids are used when a person has difficulty swallowing drinks. However, they must only be used when recommended by a Speech and Language Therapist or Doctor. It is important to remember that thickened fluids may not necessarily stop the risk of the drink going the wrong way (aspiration).

There are different levels of thickness that can be recommended. It is very important to know which level of thickness has been recommended. It is also vital to follow the manufactures mixing instructions carefully to ensure that the drink is thickened to the correct consistency. Please watch this video (link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzdXykWPrXE) which describes how to thicken drinks. More information on the different consistencies can be found below:

 

 

 

 

Modified diet consistencies are used when a person has difficulty swallowing food eg: difficulty chewing, coughing when swallowing harder/drier foods.

There are different levels of food textures that can be recommended. It is very important to know which level of modified diet has been recommended and to follow the IDDSI guidelines below to ensure the person’s food is the correct consistency: