Implementing the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative: Opportunities for Change

Abstract

Modified-texture foods and thickened liquids are commonly prescribed to minimize the risk of choking or aspirating for patients identified to have dysphagia. With improvements in health care resulting in increased survival of preterm infants and those with congenital anomalies, dysphagia prevalence is increasing in the pediatric population. Children may be prescribed texture-modified diets for various reasons because dysfunction can be present in any of the four phases of swallowing, which may manifest at different stages of development.