If you have dysphagia, you may have been told to drink thickened liquids. But why exactly is this recommended, and what are the benefits? In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at the benefits of thick water and other facts you should know:
Thick Water 101, Explained
Thick water is simply water that has been thickened with a powder or gel to make it easier to swallow. It has a pudding-like consistency and is often used as a treatment for dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. When difficulty swallowing is caused by a neurological condition, such as stroke or Parkinson's disease, thickened liquids can be a helpful way to prevent aspiration pneumonia, which is a serious complication that can occur when liquids are inhaled into the lungs.
How is Thick Water Made?
There are several ways to thicken water, but the most common is to use a powder or gel. Powder is the most popular choice because it's easy to use and can be stored for long periods. Gel is also a popular choice, but it can be more expensive and may need to be refrigerated. Shop Thickeners and Thick Water on Cart Health.
To make thick water, you simply add the powder or gel to the water and stir until it's fully dissolved. The amount of powder or gel you'll need to use will depend on the consistency you're trying to achieve. For example, if you're trying to make a thick pudding-like consistency, you'll need to use more powder or gel than if you're just trying to make a slightly thicker liquid.
Thick-It Clear Advantage Nectar Consistency Thickened Water
What are the Benefits of Thick Water?
Here are five benefits of thick water that may surprise you:
-
Helps with Swallowing
If you have difficulty swallowing, thick water can help. When liquids are thickened, they are less likely to leak into the airway and cause aspiration. Aspiration is when liquids or food enter the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia.
-
Reduces Risk of Dehydration
Dehydration is a serious concern for people with dysphagia. When you can't swallow well, you may not take in enough fluids, which can lead to dehydration. Drinking thickened liquids can help prevent dehydration by making it easier to take in fluids.
-
Prevents Choking
Another benefit of thick water is that it can prevent choking. When liquids are thin, they can go down the wrong pipe and cause choking. Thickened liquids are less likely to do this.
-
Makes Nutrition Easier
If you have difficulty swallowing, you may not be able to take in enough nutrients. This can lead to malnutrition. Drinking thickened liquids can help you get the nutrients you need.
-
Tastes Great
Many people think that thickened liquids don't taste as good as thin liquids. But this isn't true! There are many different types of thickening agents, and some of them actually improve the taste of liquids. Shop our flavored thickened beverages here.
Conclusion
Thick water can offer many benefits for those with dysphagia, as well as other conditions. It can help to increase the amount of time that food spends in the mouth, which can aid in the breakdown of food and make it easier to swallow. Additionally, thick water can help to lubricate the throat and reduce the risk of aspiration. Finally, thick water can also provide a feeling of fullness, which can be helpful for those who are struggling to eat enough during mealtime.
If you need health products online, you can get them from Cart Health. We carry products like dietary supplements, adult diapers, and more. Check out our products and shop from us at Cart Health.
