Maintaining adequate hydration is important for our comfort and overall health.  It can be challenging with individuals with dysphagia especially in the warmer summer months.  Ideas to help with hydration include:

Hydration Ideas

• Offer a wide variety of liquids throughout the day (juice, water, carbonated beverages, etc.). If an individual is on thickened liquids, present liquids that are the appropriate viscosity.
• Offer hydrating foods that fall within the individual’s appropriate dietary texture (e.g. fruits, smoothies, sorbets, popsicles, ice cream).
• Encourage small sips/drinks of liquids throughout the day. Increase hydration with increased activity and increased temperature…. before, during and after the activities.

Whipped Lemonade Recipe from the kitchen

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups ice cubes
• ¼ cup cold heavy cream
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from approximately 2 medium lemons)
• ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
• Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

• Place 1 ½ cups ice cubes, ¼ cup cold heavy cream, ¼ cup lemon juice, and ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk in a blender (high speed). Blend until smooth.
• Pour into glass and garnish with whipped cream and a lemon slice if desired.

Notes

• Dairy Free option: substitute plant-based cream and coconut cream for heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk
• Thickened liquids: Add thickener to ensure appropriate viscosity (thickness).