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The Role of Food and Drink Modifications

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One of the most important strategies for managing dysphagia is adapting the texture and consistency of food and beverages. The goal is to make swallowing safer and easier, while ensuring the body still receives the nutrition it needs.

To guide this process, healthcare professionals around the world use the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework. IDDSI provides clear standards for food textures and drink thickness, ranging from thin liquids to extremely thick, spoonable consistencies.

• Why it works: Thickened liquids move more slowly than thin liquids, giving individuals more control when swallowing and reducing the risk of aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway).

• Food modifications: Solid foods may be softened, pureed, or minced to match IDDSI texture levels.

• Drink modifications: Liquids are thickened to specific levels (from “slightly thick” to “extremely thick”) based on the individual’s swallowing ability.

By tailoring food and drink textures according to IDDSI standards, healthcare professionals can reduce risks while maintaining hydration and nutrition.

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Advance Meal – Multigrain Drink: Designed with IDDSI Standards in Mind

At Advance Meal, we understand the importance of safe, nutritious options for people living with swallowing difficulties. That’s why we’ve developed the Advance Meal Multigrain Drink, available in three consistency levels that align with IDDSI guidelines:

• Level 1 – Slightly Thick (IDDSI Level 1): A little thicker than water, suitable for drinking through a straw.

• Level 2 – Mildly Thick (IDDSI Level 2): Flows more slowly from a spoon than thin liquids. Can be consumed with a straw, though it requires more effort.

• Level 3 – Moderately Thick (IDDSI Level 3): A thicker texture that holds its shape on a spoon and is consumed like a soft food.

These levels provide safe options tailored to individual needs, while ensuring that every serving delivers balanced nutrition from multigrains.

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Supporting Nutrition and Quality of Life

Food and drink modifications are not just about safety—they are about supporting health, comfort, and dignity. By following IDDSI standards and offering practical solutions like Advance Meal Multigrain Drink, individuals with dysphagia can maintain hydration, prevent malnutrition, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that their meals are both safe and nourishing.

 

Source: www.iddsi.org

 

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