When we think of the holiday season, no matter what we celebrate, we all have the same picture in our head: spending time with the family around a table full of all kinds of treats. For some people though, it might be challenging.
For people with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), holiday meals are often more stressful. Managing dysphagia at home can be difficult and time-consuming at any time throughout the year, but around the holidays it can be even tougher. You may be traveling away from home, joining large gatherings where food options may be limited or spending time with family and friends who may not be as familiar with your unique dietary needs.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy this festive season.
As a person with dysphagia,
- When hosting a gathering at your house, make sure that you will enjoy it as much as the others. Prepare your food and drinks according to your needs, and don’t be insecure or shy about it. Your safety is your priority.
- Don’t hesitate to inform your hosts beforehand about your dietary needs so that they can be prepared, or even ask what they are planning to make so you know your options. If vegetarians and vegans do it, so can you.
- If you don’t feel that your needs will be met, bring your own food. It’s not impolite. It’s about taking care of yourself and making sure that you are enjoying yourself as much as everyone else.
All in all, dysphagia has a big social impact like most dietary restrictions. Don’t be afraid to talk about it and share your needs and thoughts with others. It’s only through awareness that change will come. We see daily more and more restaurants adding vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to their menus. Who knows? Maybe soon there will be some dysphagia options too.
Antiochou-Plexida Konstantina, SLP