Why do I need level 1 slightly thick fluids?
Thicker drinks may be easier for you to swallow than normal drinks. Thicker fluids hold together better and move more slowly, which may make them easier to control and give you more time to swallow. Thicker fluids may be less likely to ‘go down the wrong way’ and enter your windpipe or airway. This is known as aspiration.
What do they look like?
- Level 1 Slightly Thick drinks are thicker than water
- Can flow through a straw
- Some drinks may naturally be slightly thick (like some fruit nectars or milks). Thin liquids like water, milk, tea, coffee, juice may need to be thickened to the Slightly Thick level
How do I thicken my drinks?
Any fluid can be thickened to a Level 1 Slightly Thick consistency using a thickening powder. Whilst an inpatient at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, thickening powder will be provided to you as appropriate. If required after discharge, thickening powder can be purchased from your local pharmacy.
What other fluids and foods do I need to thicken?
Remember soups, sauces and any dietary supplements must also be Slightly thick consistency. Foods that become thin fluids in the mouth (such as jelly and ice-cream) may not be recommended for people who require slightly thick fluids.
Tips for thickening fluids:
Add ________ scoops of ___________________________ thickening powder to 100 mL of fluid to make it Level 1 Slightly Thick consistency.
Note: Fluids with thickening powder added can become thicker after standing.
Who can I contact if I have any questions?
Speech Language Pathologist: ________________________________
Contact Number: _________________________________
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