When thickening hot drinks, be aware that the beverage tends to get thicker as it cools off.It’s important to drink enough fluid so you don’t get dehydrated. Thickened liquids are still part of your fluid intake.You should drink 6 to 8 cups of fluid every day, unless your doctor restricts your fluids because of a health condition. People who have problems swallowing liquids often don’t get enough daily fluids.Talk to your doctor, speech therapist, or dietitian to help decide which foods and fluids you tolerate best. You may also need to avoid gelatins (like Jell-O®) and scrambled eggs.These have thin juices that can easily enter the lungs.
Common examples are oranges, grapes, and watermelon.
You may need to avoid certain moist and juicy foods.When the ice melts, it makes the drink too thin. Do not add ice cubes to thickened liquids.Do not eat anything that melts, such as ice cream or ice cubes.Examples of thin liquids are water, coffee, milk, soda, broth, and soup.Thin liquids often cause choking and are harder to swallow than thick liquids.Basic Tips for People Who Need to Thicken Liquids Avoid thin liquids and some foods.
