Tool Kit. Strategies to facilitate eating and swallowing in people living with early-stage dementia

35 B. Food modifications 5. Some foods are more difficult to swallow, making swallowing more challenging. Appendix 2 lists foods that may pose more significant challenges and risks when eating and some possible modifications (consistency and size) to facilitate their consumption. The speech therapist may recommend the use of thickeners, which are products that increase the thickness of liquids and foods. Store-bought thickeners Homemade thickeners such as chuño (potato flour) and cornstarch 6. Thickeners made from modified corn starches or gums, such as xanthan gum, can be purchased. They may have a high monetary cost. 7. There are also homemade thickeners prepared with products found in the kitchen. They have a lower monetary cost. The speech therapist or nutritionist in charge should indicate which ones to use and teach how to use them. 8. The nutritionist may also recommend meal plans adapted to the consistencies indicated by the speech therapist. THICKENER