Dysphagia is a medical term for the condition that makes it difficult to swallow foods and liquids. Dysphasic individuals thus require special nutrition to stay healthy. You should only follow a specialized diet under your doctor's supervision; a registered dietitian can also help you choose the healthiest food options.
Dysphagia
Dysphasic individuals require additional time and effort for foods to pass through the esophagus. The most common symptoms associated with dysphagia are painful or the inability to swallow, regurgitation, heartburn and gagging, the Mayo Clinic reports. The causes of dysphagia vary, and it can occur at any age. The clinic adds that the two most common types of dysphagia are esophageal and oropharyngeal dysphagia; they can be caused a number of conditions such as aging, achalasia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, tumors, cancers and neurological disorders.
Diet Significance
A doctor may recommend a specialized diet for individuals who have difficulty swallowing. Pennsylvania's Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology practice explains that proper nutrition is an important treatment for individuals to receive adequate nutrition and prevent further complications. A recommended dysphasic diet also promotes health by giving patients vital calories and nutrients to prevent malnutrition. Illinois' OSF Saint Francis Medical Center adds that a registered dietitian may do this by suggesting a wide range of foods from all food groups.
Progression
There are five levels of diet suitable for those who have trouble swallowing, according to Jackson Siegelbaum, beginning with pureed food and progressing forward to modified regular food. The foods in each levels vary in texture and consistency and are individual to each patient. Dysphagia sufferers progress through the levels as their health and ability to swallow foods improves.
Nutrition
The first level consists of pureed foods mashed to promote swallowing. Foods such as meats, grains, cheese and vegetables are mashed into a smooth consistency, Jackson Siegelbaum explains. Other good examples of pureed foods include ice cream, yogurt, milkshakes and gelatin. The foods in the second level are minced or chopped into small pieces. Once the individual is able to tolerate minced foods, they may progress to the third level. The third level consists of ground foods in pieces larger than minced. Foods at the fourth level are considered soft foods, according to Saint Francis. Soft foods include all liquids, various breads and grains, baked meats and canned fruits and vegetables. Finally, individuals progress to the fifth level; this includes regular foods that can be modified by a registered dietitian. Throughout the levels, foods can be thickened or thinned to change consistency. In addition to foods, fluids are also essential for maintaining health. Jackson Siegelbaum recommends 48 to 64 ounces of water daily for dysphasic individuals.
Considerations
Sit in an upright position while eating foods or drinking fluids, Jackson Siegelbaum recommends. Chew all foods thoroughly and consume them slowly without distractions.
