Tag: Dietary texture

Research shows that the satisfying sound of a crunchy food can enhance our perception of its freshness and flavor, influencing our food choices. But when we ask, "What is in the middle of a crispy crunch?" the answer reveals more than just texture—it points to the core nutritional value, or lack thereof, within our favorite snacks.

According to a study published in the *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*, eating crunchier, harder foods can slow down eating pace and lead to a significant reduction in calorie intake. This principle is at the heart of understanding what is a crunchy diet and how focusing on food texture can be a powerful tool for weight management and overall nutritional health.

According to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI), a regular texture diet, known as Level 7, encompasses all normal, everyday foods with no restrictions on texture. This standard diet is for individuals without chewing or swallowing difficulties and serves as the baseline for all dietary modifications.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the term 'solids' for infants includes pureed or mashed foods like applesauce, which are not liquids. This definition highlights that while applesauce is not a chewing-required food, its classification depends heavily on the context, leading many to wonder: 'Does applesauce count as solid food?'