What Is ThickenUp and How Does It Work?
ThickenUp is a brand of instant food and beverage thickener primarily used for the dietary management of dysphagia, a medical condition characterized by swallowing difficulties. Dysphagia can be caused by neurological conditions like stroke, Parkinson's disease, or other medical issues. The thickener works by increasing the viscosity of liquids, causing them to move more slowly. This gives the individual more time to control the liquid in their mouth and coordinate a safe swallow, reducing the likelihood of aspiration, where food or drink enters the airway and lungs.
The product is available in two primary forms: a starch-based formula and a xanthan gum-based formula, such as ThickenUp Clear. The choice of thickener depends on the specific needs of the patient and should be determined under medical supervision. Proper mixing is essential to achieve the desired consistency without lumps and ensure optimal safety.
Preparing Thickened Liquids
Preparing drinks with ThickenUp involves a specific process to ensure the correct, uniform texture is achieved. For powdered thickeners, the general steps are:
- First, add the recommended amount of powder to a clean, dry cup, using the scoop provided with the product.
- Pour the liquid (hot or cold) over the powder and stir briskly and immediately until the powder is fully dissolved.
- Allow the mixture to stand for a few minutes to reach the desired consistency. The wait time can vary depending on the liquid and the type of thickener used.
- Serve at an appropriate temperature. For hot drinks, ensure they have cooled enough to be safe to drink.
A Comparison of Thickener Types
Different types of thickeners offer different properties, impacting taste, texture, and how they interact with saliva. The following table compares the two main types commonly used in ThickenUp products.
| Feature | Starch-Based Thickeners | Xanthan Gum-Based Thickeners |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Modified food starch, often cornstarch | Xanthan gum |
| Clarity | Opaque, can make liquids look cloudy | Clear, does not change the appearance of drinks |
| Consistency Over Time | May continue to thicken over time | Stable consistency, does not over-thicken |
| Amylase Resistance | Can be broken down by salivary amylase, which might cause thinning | Salivary amylase resistant, maintaining its thickness in the mouth |
| Flavor and Texture | Can impart a slight starchy flavor and grainy texture | Tasteless, odorless, and lump-free with a smoother, slicker texture |
International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI)
To standardize and improve safety for patients with swallowing difficulties, healthcare professionals use the IDDSI framework. This framework uses a continuum of textures and consistencies, with ThickenUp helping to achieve different levels of thickness for liquids and foods. For liquids, the levels range from slightly thick (nectar-like) to extremely thick (pudding-like), with specific preparation instructions to reach each target viscosity.
Potential Complications and Precautions
While thickeners are essential for safe swallowing, their use is not without considerations. Overconsumption or improper use can lead to issues such as bloating or diarrhea. A significant concern is the risk of dehydration, as some patients may consume less fluid due to the altered taste and texture. Therefore, it is critical to find a thickener and consistency that the patient finds palatable and acceptable.
Another important aspect is medication management. Thickened fluids can affect the disintegration and dissolution of oral medications, potentially altering their absorption and efficacy. For example, studies have shown delayed disintegration of tablets when immersed in thickened fluids. A notable interaction exists between certain laxatives (containing macrogol/polyethylene glycol) and starch-based thickeners, which can cause the thickened liquid to become thin and watery again, posing an aspiration risk. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding medication administration with thickened liquids.
Furthermore, specific warnings exist for infants and young children. The U.S. FDA issued warnings about xanthan gum-based thickeners (including SimplyThick, which is different from but uses the same thickening agent as ThickenUp Clear) in infants, linking them to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Xanthan gum-based thickeners are not for use in infants under 12 months of age.
For more in-depth information on the effects of thickeners on medication bioavailability, consult the article in the Nutrition Journal available on the National Institutes of Health website: Thickening agents used for dysphagia management: effect on bioavailability of water, medication and feelings of satiety.
Conclusion
In summary, ThickenUp is a specialized thickener product designed to assist individuals with dysphagia by making liquids and foods safer to swallow. It functions by increasing viscosity to slow down the flow of fluids, thereby reducing the risk of aspiration. The product is available in different formulas, including clear xanthan gum-based and opaque starch-based varieties, each with distinct properties. However, its use requires careful consideration, medical supervision, and proper preparation to ensure patient safety, minimize potential side effects like dehydration, and avoid negative interactions with oral medications. By following the guidance of a healthcare professional, ThickenUp can be an effective tool in managing swallowing difficulties and improving the safety and enjoyment of mealtimes.
