Understanding the Fresubin Thickened Range
Fresubin Thickened products are oral nutritional supplements designed for individuals with or at risk of disease-related malnutrition, particularly those with dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. The 'level' designation directly corresponds to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework, a globally recognized system for standardizing food and drink textures for individuals with dysphagia. This framework is critical because using the correct fluid consistency is essential for safe swallowing and can help prevent aspiration, where food or liquid enters the airway.
Both Fresubin Level 2 and Level 3 offer a high-protein (20g per 200ml bottle) and high-energy (300 kcal per 200ml bottle) supplement to help meet nutritional requirements. The core difference, however, lies entirely in the thickness of the fluid, which is pre-thickened by the manufacturer to ensure consistency and safety for the patient.
Fresubin Level 2: Mildly Thick (IDDSI Level 2)
Level 2 Fresubin is described as 'mildly thick,' with a consistency similar to nectar. This means it can be drunk from a cup and is designed for patients who need a slightly more viscous liquid than thin fluids but can manage a consistency that still flows relatively easily. A speech and language therapist (SLT) assesses a patient's swallowing ability to determine if this consistency is appropriate.
Characteristics of Level 2 Fresubin:
- Consistency: Mildly thick, like nectar.
- Flow: Pours easily from a cup but is thicker than water.
- IDDSI Code: Meets the criteria for IDDSI Level 2.
Fresubin Level 3: Moderately Thick (IDDSI Level 3)
In contrast, Level 3 Fresubin is a 'moderately thick' fluid, resembling a honey-like consistency. This thicker texture requires more effort to swallow and is intended for individuals with more severe dysphagia who require a higher viscosity to prevent choking or aspiration. Like Level 2, this prescription is based on a professional assessment by a healthcare provider.
Characteristics of Level 3 Fresubin:
- Consistency: Moderately thick, like honey.
- Flow: Pours more slowly and thickly than Level 2.
- IDDSI Code: Meets the criteria for IDDSI Level 3.
Comparison Table: Level 2 vs. Level 3 Fresubin
| Feature | Fresubin Level 2 | Fresubin Level 3 |
|---|---|---|
| IDDSI Level | Level 2 (Mildly Thick) | Level 3 (Moderately Thick) |
| Consistency | Nectar-like; flows easily | Honey-like; flows more slowly |
| Indication | Mild dysphagia | Moderate dysphagia |
| Energy | 1.5 kcal/ml (300 kcal per 200ml bottle) | 1.5 kcal/ml (300 kcal per 200ml bottle) |
| Protein | 10g per 100ml (20g per 200ml bottle) | 10g per 100ml (20g per 200ml bottle) |
| Patient Suitability | For those needing slightly thickened fluids for safe swallowing | For those needing significantly thickened fluids for safe swallowing |
| Administration | Drunk from a cup | Drunk from a cup, but slower pace |
The Importance of Professional Guidance
It is crucial to emphasize that the choice between Fresubin Level 2 and Level 3 is not a personal preference but a medical necessity. A speech and language therapist or other healthcare professional determines the appropriate level after a thorough evaluation of the patient's swallowing function. Consuming a fluid with the wrong consistency can have serious health consequences, including aspiration pneumonia, which is why adherence to the prescribed level is paramount. Patients should always be guided by their healthcare team when selecting and using these specialized nutritional products. Freezing, heating, or adding flavouring to these pre-thickened supplements is not recommended as it can alter the consistency and compromise the product's safety for the patient.
Conclusion
In summary, the core difference between Fresubin Level 2 and Level 3 lies in their viscosity, aligning with the IDDSI guidelines for mildly thick and moderately thick fluids, respectively. While both formulations deliver the same high-energy and high-protein content, they are designed for different degrees of swallowing difficulty. The decision on which level to use is a clinical one, made by a medical professional to ensure the patient's safety and nutritional needs are met effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 'Level' in Fresubin Thickened products mean?
'Level' refers to the consistency or thickness of the fluid, which is classified according to the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) framework.
Can I use Fresubin Level 3 if I prefer a thicker drink, even if I was prescribed Level 2?
No, you should only consume the level prescribed by your healthcare professional, such as a speech and language therapist. Using the wrong consistency could be unsafe and increase the risk of aspiration.
Are Fresubin Level 2 and Level 3 nutritionally different?
No, both Fresubin Thickened Level 2 and Level 3 contain the same high-calorie and high-protein nutritional profile; the only difference is the thickness.
What is IDDSI Level 2 compared to IDDSI Level 3?
IDDSI Level 2 corresponds to a 'mildly thick' consistency, while IDDSI Level 3 is 'moderately thick.' The difference is critical for managing dysphagia safely.
How does a healthcare professional determine the correct Fresubin level?
A speech and language therapist will conduct a swallowing assessment to determine the appropriate fluid thickness for an individual patient, ensuring the safest option is chosen.
Can I add anything to Fresubin Thickened to change its flavor?
No, it is not recommended to add any flavourings or other liquids to Fresubin Thickened, as this could alter the consistency and make it unsafe for swallowing.
Are Fresubin Thickened products suitable for everyone with dysphagia?
While designed for dysphagia, these products should only be used under medical supervision and are not suitable for children under 3 years old. A healthcare professional will determine if it is appropriate for a patient's specific condition.
Key Takeaways
- Consistency is the primary differentiator: Fresubin Level 2 is mildly thick (IDDSI Level 2), and Fresubin Level 3 is moderately thick (IDDSI Level 3).
- Nutritional content is identical: Both versions provide the same high-energy (1.5 kcal/ml) and high-protein (27% energy) supplement.
- Expert assessment is required: A speech and language therapist or other clinician must assess the patient to determine the safest and most effective level.
- IDDSI framework guides consistency: The thickness levels are standardized globally by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative to ensure patient safety.
- Do not alter the product: Adding flavouring or heating Fresubin Thickened products is strongly discouraged as it can change the pre-thickened consistency.
