Unit 3 - Diet and nutritional treatment approach for dysphagia

3.1. Basics of nutrition on dysphagia condition

3.1.3.3. Managing malnutrition in patients with dysphagia

In order to overcome the problem of malnutrition, a team approach including medical doctors, dentists, nurses, public health nurses, nutritionists, and therapists is mandatory.

Actions:

  • Remove or substantially modify dietary restrictions;

  • Encourage use of flavor enhancers and frequent small meals;

  • Improve protein and energy intake by enrichment meals;

  • Treat depression, and remove or replace medicines that can cause loss of appetite as a side-effect,

  • Offer liquid nutritional supplements for use between (not with) meals;

  • Evaluate swallowing as well as functional ability to manage eating;

  • If the patient must be fed, allow adequate time for chewing, swallowing, and clearing throat before offering another bite.