Nectar

Leder et al (2012)

• Looked at patients who aspirated on water but could manage a puree diet.
• Compared nectar and honey consistencies.
• Aspiration is often due to age related loss of muscle bulk/ strength, reduced functional reserve, generalised weakness, deconditioning, or reduced cognitive functioning.
• Thickened fluids slow down bolus flow.

Method

• 84 patients referred to SLT with dysphagia, who managed a puree diet but aspirated on water on the 3 ounce water test were chosen.
• FEES was used to ascertain if they aspirated on honey/ nectar thick fluids

Results

• 100% of patients did not show signs of aspiration on either honey or nectar thick fluids.
• Patients reported that they preferred the thinner consistency.

How this affects my practice

• I will consider recommending nectar thick consistencies/ assessing swallowing on nectar if patients are having compliance issues with syrup thick fluids.
• Nectar as a step down from syrup during dysphagia therapy.