Understanding the Base Consistency of Real Food Blends
Real Food Blends products are intentionally thicker than the liquid commercial formulas commonly used for tube feeding. This purposeful density is a key feature, stemming from the fact that the product is made from 100% whole food ingredients, such as pureed chicken, vegetables, and rice. Unlike highly processed, liquid-based formulas, Real Food Blends closely mimics the texture and feel of real food that has been blended. This creates a more substantial feeding, which can improve gastrointestinal tolerance, potentially reducing common issues like reflux and discomfort. Think of the texture as similar to a thick, smooth applesauce or a baby food puree rather than a watery shake.
Factors That Influence Consistency
While Real Food Blends has a characteristically thick base, several factors can affect its final consistency. These include:
- Flavor and Ingredients: Each meal variant, such as Beef/Potatoes/Spinach or Salmon/Oats/Squash, contains different real food ingredients, which naturally results in slight variations in thickness. For example, a meal with more fibrous vegetables or starches might feel slightly thicker than one with more fruit puree.
- Temperature: The temperature of the blend can also significantly alter its viscosity. Cold temperatures, such as when a pouch has been refrigerated, can cause the blend to thicken. Warming the pouch to room temperature or slightly higher can help thin it out and improve flow. Note: Do not microwave the pouch directly.
- Added Liquids: The most common way to modify the consistency is by adding liquid. The manufacturer suggests adding water, coconut water, milk, or broth to achieve a thinner texture. This is particularly necessary for pump or gravity feeding, where a thinner blend is needed for proper administration.
Adjusting Consistency for Different Feeding Methods
The consistency of Real Food Blends is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing users to adapt it for their specific administration method. The two primary methods are bolus feeding and pump feeding.
Bolus Feeding
The standard, thicker consistency of Real Food Blends is designed to be administered via the bolus method using a large syringe and a G-tube of 12 French or larger. This method involves slowly pushing the pureed meal through the syringe. The intentional thickness is thought to provide a more satisfying and complete feeling, similar to eating a meal orally. For bolus feeding, the meal can often be used straight from the pouch after kneading to ensure it's well-mixed.
Pump or Gravity Feeding
For those using a feeding pump or a gravity drip system, thinning the blend is necessary to prevent blockages and ensure a smooth, controlled flow.
To thin for pump or gravity feeding:
- Add liquid to the pouch: Open the Real Food Blends pouch and add 2-3 ounces of your preferred liquid (e.g., water, broth, or milk) directly into the pouch.
- Knead the pouch: Gently knead the pouch to thoroughly mix the additional liquid with the blended meal.
- Pour into bag: Transfer the thinned mixture into your feeding bag.
- Administer: Follow your pump manufacturer’s guidelines. It's often recommended to hang the feeding bag higher than the pump to aid gravity.
Consistency Comparison: Real Food Blends vs. Traditional Formulas
| Characteristic | Real Food Blends | Traditional Formulas |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Thicker, resembling a puree. | Thinner, liquid-like. |
| Purpose of Consistency | Intentionally thicker to potentially aid digestion and reduce reflux. | Engineered for easy flow through thin feeding tubes. |
| Composition | Made from 100% whole food ingredients (e.g., chicken, vegetables, grains). | Formulated with specific nutrients from various sources; can be partially or fully hydrolyzed. |
| Primary Administration | Designed for bolus feeding, but adaptable for pump/gravity. | Typically designed for pump or continuous feeding. |
| Modification | Easily thinned by adding water or other liquids. | Generally not recommended to modify consistency without professional guidance. |
| GI Sensation | Some find the thicker texture provides a more satisfying, “full” feeling. | Offers nutritional support but does not mimic the sensation of eating. |
Troubleshooting Consistency Issues
For tube-feeding users, managing the correct consistency is crucial for both feeding and digestion. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- If the blend is too thick and causing flow issues: First, try warming the pouch by running it under warm water. If that doesn't work, add more liquid and thoroughly knead the pouch again. For bolus feeding, pushing slower can also help.
- If the blend is separating: Since Real Food Blends is made from whole food ingredients, some separation can occur, especially if it has been stored upright. Vigorously kneading the pouch before opening will help redistribute the contents evenly.
- If using a small feeding tube: Real Food Blends is recommended for a 12 French G-tube or larger. If you have a smaller tube, discuss alternative blended diet options or a home blend recipe with your healthcare team to ensure a safe flow rate.
- Consult a professional: Any significant changes to your blended diet should be discussed with your healthcare provider or dietitian to ensure all nutritional needs are met. You can also find additional tips and videos on the Real Food Blends website to help with different administration methods.
Conclusion
The consistency of Real Food Blends is a central and intentional feature of the product. By providing a thicker, puree-like texture, it aims to enhance digestive tolerance and offer a feeding experience more akin to eating real food. The use of 100% whole food ingredients contributes to this texture, which can be easily managed and adjusted by adding fluid for different administration methods like bolus, pump, or gravity feeding. While its thickness is a departure from traditional enteral formulas, this characteristic is what many users find beneficial. Always remember to work with your healthcare team to determine the right consistency for your individual needs and administration equipment.
