CHICAGO – The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics announced it is implementing a global initiative May 1 to standardize diets for people who suffer from swallowing disorders.
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative created standardized terminology and definitions for texture-modified foods and thickened liquids to improve safety and care for more than 590 million people worldwide living with dysphagia, a swallowing disorder.
“The Academy, our members and our multidisciplinary colleagues look forward to incorporating this new framework to help those suffering from swallowing disorders,” said registered dietitian nutritionist Diane M. Enos, the Academy’s Chief Learning Officer.
Dysphagia can occur at any time throughout a person's life. The most common causes are related to underlying medical or physical conditions. In severe cases, dysphagia can lead to life-threatening chest infection, pneumonia, malnutrition or dehydration.
“We understand that adoption and implementation will take some time, so IDDSI resources, containing best practices, are available to help health professionals promote change in their facilities,” Enos said.
For additional information on the IDDSI, visit www.iddsi.org.
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Representing more than 100,000 credentialed practitioners, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatright.org.
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