Get the scoop on puréed diets - all you need to know about this type of food regimen

What’s a puréed diet? A puréed diet refers to the process of grinding or puréeing certain foods into mushy, soft textures that can be eaten with little effort by people who have trouble chewing or swallowing, or those who have specific gut issues that require the texture of their foods to be modified. Though these diets typically restrict certain items, such as dairy products and whole grains, they can be tailored to an individual’s dietary needs and preferences (e.g., a purely vegan diet). Learn all you need to know about this type of food regimen here.

Why do people opt for a pureed diet?

When a person is on a liquid diet, most of us think that it's for weight loss or health reasons. Although these are reasons why people opt for a liquid diet, other ailments may need such as treatments. They may include accident victims with facial or head injuries who require specific kinds of solid foods; patients suffering from swallowing disorders (such as those with neurological damage); and people who have problems chewing their foods due to dental issues, and oral surgery procedures or TMJ Syndrome. It's up to your doctor which kind of diet you should go on and if they suggest that you start with a puréed diet then here are some recipes that will help make your transition easier!

What should I eat when following a pureed diet?

A puréed diet can be specially tailored for your needs, so talk with your health care team and registered dietitian before planning your meal plan. Most people following a puréed diet eat mashed potatoes, cream soups, applesauce, and high-calorie liquids like milkshakes. Pureed foods are easier to chew than solids because they are made into tiny pieces that can slide right through your throat or down into your stomach without having to be chewed much at all. And because they're softer in texture, they’re also easier to swallow.

How do I prepare my meals when I am following a puréed diet?

A puréed diet includes foods that have been softened or mashed into a thick liquid consistency. To be honest, planning and preparing meals with a strict puréed diet can be quite difficult at first. However, you will soon get used to it and find simple ways to prepare your foods. Here are some tips that might help

How should I store my food when it is in its purest form?

If your doctor recommends a puree diet, then you’ll want to pay attention to how you store your food. Moisture is bad for any kind of puréed foods and can cause bacteria or mould growth. Use airtight containers that don’t allow much room for moisture accumulation, such as reusable glass containers with lids or plastic jars with screw-on tops.

Are there any nutrients I might miss out on by using these types of diets?

Some certain nutrients and vitamins will be difficult or impossible for those on a puréed diet to get. Because chewing is necessary for your body to absorb these nutrients, your doctor and/or dietitian must make sure these foods are part of your daily nutrition plan. For example, Vitamin K, which plays an important role in blood clotting and bone health, is not very easy to obtain from puréed foods.

Is it normal to experience weight loss while following this kind of diet?

You may lose weight in your first couple of weeks following a puréed diet, but you shouldn’t be losing more than 1-2 pounds per week. If any weight loss is accompanied by dehydration or rapid heart rate, stop using it immediately and consult with your doctor.

What are some other things I must consider before beginning such an eating plan?

Some things to consider before beginning a puréed diet include calories, portion size, amount and types of nutrients, socializing with others who may not be on such a restrictive diet (think holiday parties!), and nutritional deficiencies that could occur with an inadequate diet and other health issues that may affect your decision. You should also consider what types of recipes work best for eating a puréed diet; learn more in our post here.

How long should I expect to follow such an eating plan?

Depending on what kind of puréed diet is prescribed, patients must follow their doctor’s specific instructions. People who eat a puréed diet may typically be expected to follow such a meal plan for at least one year; often much longer. It will depend upon the patient and what condition they have that requires them to eat a pre-mixed or pureed diet.

Is there anything else I should keep in mind before considering such an eating plan?

While puréed foods might be easier for some to digest than others, any diet that requires anyone with dysphagia—difficulty swallowing—to eat pre-chopped and/or liquefied foods can come with serious risks. Many people with dysphagia must chew their food to properly swallow it. If they’re limited to and diet, they risk aspirating—inhaling fluids into their lungs instead of their stomachs—which can lead to pneumonia or even death.

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