For many elderly individuals, liquid diets are a necessity—but that doesn’t mean meals need to be boring or unappetizing. With a few simple tweaks, from flavour boosters to texture tricks, caregivers can transform everyday liquid meals into satisfying, enjoyable experiences that nourish both body and spirit.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
For the elderly with diabetes, meal replacements may play an important role in the management of this condition.
However, it can be dull and even demoralizing to eat the same pureed or soupy dishes every day.
Fortunately, things can be improved. Here are some tips to liven up the liquid diet of your loved one.
Serve a Fruit Yoghurt for Breakfast
- Use different types of fruits available, so that there is no shortage of different tastes and flavours to liven up the breakfast table.
- Just blend fruits with plain yoghurt, and add in some thin oatmeal for fibre.
Smoothies for Lunch
- Blend fresh or frozen vegetables (carrots and cucumbers, for example) with ice, adding some yoghurt or pureed banana for thickening.
- Combine different types of fruits and vegetables for different flavours each time.
Use No-Chew Recipes
- Use a blender to blend different types of meat and vegetables with spices to create tasty ‘no chew’ meals.
- If you need recipes, search for ‘no chew recipes’ online. You’d be surprised by just how many different types of recipes available out there – for free!
Shakes for Dessert
- Meal replacement drinks can be used to create some fine shakes for desserts.
- Blend in some fruits or add some instant coffee grounds for that extra kick.
Use Substitutes for Sugar
If your loved one has a sweet tooth, but you are worried about the extra calories that come with sugar, use sugar substitutes such as artificial sweeteners for the occasional special treat.
| This article is part of our series on foods and how consuming these foods can affect various aspects of our health. |
