I eat so slow, it seems that it takes me all day to eat. How can I get more calories into smaller amounts of food?

Packing calories and other into smaller portions will help you to get what you need in less food. Try adding extra butter/margarine, mayonnaise, or other spreads containing calories to you normal foods. Resource Benecalorie is an additive that adds calories and protein, and typically doesn't change the taste, consistency or texture of a food

I seem to have more difficulty eating as the day progresses. Why is that and what should I do about it?

The swallow mechanism operates with 26 different muscle groups. Because these muscles are affected by the underlying condition that caused the dysphagia they are not in good physical condition and wear out as the day progresses. When this happens it is best to have most of your foods earlier in the day when you are feeling stronger and more energetic.

When can I have different types of foods?

The swallowing therapist who recommended your diet or one who might be following you now should be consulted. If you are not working with someone you can access someone in your community by going on to this website: http://www.asha.org/findpro or calling 800-638-8255

I seem to be losing weight. Should I tell my doctor?

Yes, bring this up to your doctor as soon as possible. Just as the muscles in the rest of your body require nutrients and energy to function efficiently so do your swallowing muscles. If you are losing weight you may be losing muscles strength as well.

How can I get adequate fluid when all of my beverages are thickened?

The thickened beverages are still high in fluid even though they don't behave like fluids anymore. An 8 oz container of thickened juice still has 8 ounces of fluid in it. The fluid is releases upon digestion in the stomach and will be absorbed just like it would if you were drinking regular juice.

How can I improve the variety in this Dysphagia diet?

Many of your favorite foods can be altered using a food processor. Adding ThickenUp to get the right consistency will give you better texture and food that is more pleasing to look at. (See the recipes section for many ideas and sample meal plans!)

Also, using flavoring agents such as extracts, herbs, spices, sauces and syrups will also add variety. For example, you can make pineapple-orange juice by adding pineapple extract to the RESOURCE THICKENED Orange Juice.

Can I make chocolate milk with the RESOURCE Dairy Thick?

Yes, a small amount of the syrup will work better than powders do and won't alter the consistency much either. You could also add extracts for other flavoring agents to the Dairy Thick.