Nothing is more important than the safety and quality of foods and beverages for individuals with a swallowing disorder. That’s why the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI)* developed the IDDSI Framework, which provides a common terminology and standards to describe food textures and drink thickness.
The IDDSI Framework is divided into eight levels ranging from thin liquids to regular foods and provides a standard method for measuring texture-modified foods. But what does each level mean, and how do you ensure your food or drink is thickened appropriately? The Thick-It® brand, along with Margaret Roche, MS, RD, CSG, CDE, FAND, is here to help. Our short video series explains the characteristics and testing methods for three of the most recommended levels in the texture-modified dysphagia diet, beginning with Mildly Thick, Level 2.
Mildly Thick, Level 2 is recommended when thin drinks like water and milk and Slightly Thick, Level 1 liquids flow too fast for an individual to swallow safely. Mildly Thick, Level 2 liquids are easier to swallow because they flow at a slightly slower rate. Its consistency should pour quickly from a spoon and be easy to sip from a glass and through a straw with mild effort.
Watch the video below to learn how to test a Mildly Thick, Level 2 liquid using a 10-milliliter slip tip syringe.
Visit our website for more dysphagia care resources, including our next video on Moderately Thick, Level 3, or sign up for our mailing list to get the next video sent straight to your inbox.
*Thick-It® brand is a gold sponsor of IDDSI. This article is NOT an official IDDSI resource, educational material, or education program, and it is NOT meant to replace materials and resources on www.IDDSI.org.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition, treatment, or the use of Thick-It® products. The information contained herein is for informational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment in any manner.