Written by Chad Birt on Mon May 22 2023.
For family caregivers, ensuring loved ones with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can eat and drink safely is a top priority. That's where food and drink thickeners like Thick-It and ThickenUp become invaluable tools. These agents change the consistency of liquids and pureed foods, significantly reducing the risk of coughing and choking, making mealtimes easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
If you care for someone with swallowing difficulties, knowing how to properly use these thickeners is essential. This guide provides a simple, step-by-step process to help you prepare thickened foods and drinks confidently at home.
Before you begin, gather these basic supplies:
A thickening agent: Such as Thick-It, ThickenUp, or other brands recommended by a healthcare professional.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate portioning.
Mixing utensil: A spoon, fork, or wire whisk.
Mixing bowl: Large enough to accommodate your food or drink.
Understanding the appropriate consistency for your loved one is crucial for their safety and nutritional needs. There are generally three main levels of thickened liquids, often guided by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework:
Level 2: Mildly thick (nectar-like): These liquids are slightly thicker than water but still flow freely from a cup. Think of the consistency of apricot nectar or thicker vegetable juices.
Level 3: Moderately thick (honey-like): Similar to the consistency of honey, these liquids pour slowly and can often be consumed with a spoon or a wide-bore straw. Examples include some thicker juices or mildly thickened soups.
Level 4: Extremely thick (pudding-like/pureed): These are scoopable and hold their shape on a spoon, much like pudding, custard, or thick yogurt. While primarily used for pureed foods, some very thick liquids might fall into this category.
Always consult with your loved one's doctor or speech-language pathologist to determine the precise consistency level that best meets their specific dietary and swallowing needs.
Begin by accurately measuring the portion of liquid or pureed food you intend to thicken. Use your measuring cups or spoons to transfer the item into your mixing bowl.
"Works very well with cold and hot liquids and foods." – Susie R., Caregiver
Every food and drink thickener comes with a "usage chart" on its label. This chart is your go-to reference, indicating the exact amount of thickening agent needed per volume of liquid or food to achieve each consistency level (nectar, honey, pudding).
"Instructions are easy to read, and it works well for getting just the right texture." – Barbara P., Caregiver
Slowly sprinkle the recommended amount of thickening agent into your bowl while rapidly stirring with a spoon, fork, or wire whisk. Continue to stir vigorously until the thickener is completely dissolved and no lumps remain.
Most thickeners require about 60 seconds to reach their full consistency. After mixing, let the mixture sit for at least one minute. If, after this time, the food or drink still appears too thin, you can slowly add a small amount more of the thickener, stirring well after each addition, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Carewell Tip: Some beverages, like milk or nutritional supplements, may take longer to thicken – sometimes 5 to 10 minutes – due to their composition. Be patient and allow sufficient time for these to reach the proper consistency.
Once the food or drink has reached the prescribed consistency, it's ready to serve to your loved one.
How do you know if you've thickened the food or drink appropriately? The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) offers clear, globally recognized guidelines and testing methods to help caregivers ensure the correct consistency. Following IDDSI standards is vital for promoting comfort, preventing choking, and ensuring your loved one receives adequate nutrition and hydration.
For visual guidance on achieving the correct consistency levels, watch these helpful videos:
Level 2 consistency: Mildly thick (nectar-like)
Level 3 consistency: Moderately thick (honey-like)
Level 4 consistency: Extremely thick (pureed)
Navigating dysphagia care can be challenging, but you're not alone. If you have any questions about food and drink thickeners or need assistance choosing the right product, our compassionate Caregiving Specialists are here to help. You can reach us by calling (800) 696-CARE or emailing support@carewell.com.
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Medically Reviewed by Kiera Powell, R.N.
Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.
