Modified Diets FNU-422

During many illness a person can meet energy and nutrients needs by : Standards/ regular diet Modified diet FNU-422

Level of energy or nutrients. Standard or regular diet : diet that includes all foods and meets the nutrient needs of healthy people. Modified diet :diet that is adjusted to meet medical needs and may be adjusted in: Consistency. Level of energy or nutrients. Inclusion or elimination of certain foods. FNU-422

1- Mechanically altered diets: Are usually prescribed for patients with difficulty chewing or swallowing Patients with dysphagia Patients with limited chewing abilities or dental problems The most restrictive diet may contain pureed foods, The less restrictive diet may include moist ,soft textured foods. Diets for people with chewing problems include foods that are ground/minced and easy-to-chew. FNU-422

2- Blenderized liquid diets: Are often prescribed after oral or facial surgeries and for patients with chewing problems( Jaw fraction). Include fluids and foods that have been blenderized to a liquid form (often with added liquid). Cereals and breads; cooked vegetables; fresh or cooked fruits without skins or seeds; cooked, tender meats and fish; potatoes, rice, and pasta. FNU-422

Blenderized liquid diets (cont’d): Exclude foods that do not blend well: Nuts and seeds; dried fruits; hard cheeses; raw vegetables and corn. Should be consumed immediately after preparation or can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours, to prevent bacterial growth. FNU-422

3- Clear liquid diets: Require minimal digestion. Often are the first foods offered after acute gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances or IV feeding. Are used prior to bowel surgeries and colonoscopy (examination of the colon). FNU-422

Clear liquid diets (cont’d): Include clear fluids and foods that are: liquid at room temperature leave little residue (undigested material) in the intestine. Include :clear or pulp-free fruit juices, clear broths, fruit-flavored or unflavored gelatin, fruit ices made from clear juices. FNU-422

Clear liquid diets (cont’d): Although it provides fluid and electrolytes, its nutrient and calorie content are extremely limited. If used for greater than 1-2 days, should be supplemented with commercially prepared low-residue formulas that provide required nutrients. FNU-422

4-Full liquid diets: Not limited to clear liquids Transitional diet between liquids and solid foods May include milk, yogurt, cream soups and thin cooked cereals Because the diet contain milk products , it may be inappropriate for individuals with significant lactose intolerance. FNU-422

5- Fat-restricted diets: May be recommended for reducing symptoms of fat malabsorption, heartburn. Restricts fat to low as little as 50 grams/day or very low as limited to as little as 25 grams/day. Shouldn’t restrict fat more than necessary it is an important source of calories. Include foods that have less than 1 gram of fat per serving. FNU-422

Fat-restricted diets (cont’d): Include nonfat milk products, most fruits, most breads, fat free broths, vegetables prepared without fat and nonfat candies and sweets. Permit lean meat and meat substitutes – restricted to 4-6 oz. per day depending on the degree of restriction. Sometimes limit lactose or dietary fiber in patients who can not tolerate. FNU-422

6- Fiber-restricted diets: Are recommended during acute phases of intestinal disorders when the presence of fiber may increase intestinal discomfort or cause diarrhea or blockages. Used before surgery to minimize fecal volume, and after surgery during transition to a regular diet. Shouldn’t be used on a long-term basis – associated with constipation, diverticulosis, etc. FNU-422

Fiber-restricted diets (cont’d): Often eliminate whole-grain breads and cereals, nuts and seeds, raw and dried fruits, berries, dried beans and peas, chunky peanut butter, winter squash, and most raw vegetables. FNU-422

7- Low-residue diets: Differs from low-fiber diet by further restricting most fruits and milk products ; for greater reductions in colonic residue. FNU-422

8-Sodium-restricted diets: Are used to prevent or correct fluid retention and is often recommended for the treatment of hypertension, heart failure, kidney and liver diseases. The degree of restriction depends on the degree of illness Restrict sodium in most cases to 2000-3000 mg/day & may be further restricted in hospital setting Are difficult to adhere to because most patients find them unpalatable FNU-422

Sodium-restricted diets (cont’d): May require : omitting salt in cooking and at the table eliminating most prepared foods and condiments, limiting consumption of milk and milk products. FNU-422

9- High-kcalorie, high-protein diets: Are used for patients who have unusually high requirements or who are eating poorly. High-fat foods are added - diet may exceed 35% of calories from fat. Consist of small, frequent meals and commercial liquid supplements (Boost or Ensure). FNU-422

The diet order Nothing by mouth (NPO) : An order to not give a patient anything at all (food, beverages, or medications). NPO is an abbreviation for non per os Which means nothing by mouth Maybe for 24 hours (NPO for 24 hours) until after X-ray( NPO until after X-ray) Commonly used during certain acute illnesses or diagnostic tests involving the GI tract. FNU-422