Creative Protein Boosts: Adding Fun Protein Sources to Every Meal for Adults with Dysphagia

When it comes to managing dysphagia, maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging, especially when poor appetite makes large meals daunting. But protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall well-being, doesn’t have to be limited to the main meal. For adults with swallowing difficulties, small, protein-rich snacks and desserts throughout the day can make a big difference.

Here’s how you can incorporate a variety of fun protein sources into everyday meals—without overwhelming the appetite.

Why Add Protein Throughout the Day?

For those with dysphagia, it’s often easier to consume small, nutrient-dense meals rather than larger portions. Protein, however, is crucial in maintaining strength, aiding recovery, and supporting overall health. By adding protein to snacks, desserts, and mini-meals, you can spread the intake throughout the day, ensuring the body gets what it needs without relying solely on main meals. Plus, it can help reduce the monotony of eating, making it more enjoyable!

Creative Protein Ideas for Snack Time

1. Yoghurt Parfaits with Added Protein Powder
   Yoghurt is a great, easy-to-swallow snack, and when combined with a scoop of protein powder, it becomes a powerful protein boost. You can add soft fruits like mashed bananas or pureed berries for flavour and nutrients.

2. Smoothie Bowls
   Smoothies are perfect for adults with dysphagia because they can be easily thickened to meet IDDSI standards. A smoothie made with protein powder, almond butter, or soft tofu, along with pureed fruits, makes a refreshing, protein-rich snack. Top with ground flaxseeds for extra nutrition!

3. Soft-Boiled Egg and Avocado Mash
   A simple egg can be a great protein source. Mash a soft-boiled egg with avocado, and you’ve got a creamy, easy-to-eat, protein-packed snack.

4. Pureed Hummus with Soft Veggies
   A homemade hummus made from blended chickpeas (or other legumes) is rich in protein. Pair it with IDDSI Level 4-approved soft or pureed veggies like carrots, or spread it on soft crackers.

Dessert Ideas with a Protein Punch

1. Protein-Enhanced Custards or Puddings
   Custards or puddings are naturally smooth and can be fortified with protein powders or high-protein milk. You can also add pureed fruits or chia seeds to make these desserts even more nutritious.

2. Cheesecake Bites (Protein-Style!)
   A soft cheesecake made with Greek yoghurt or cottage cheese provides a satisfying and delicious way to add protein to dessert time. Blend to a smooth consistency, and it becomes a decadent yet nutritious treat.

3. Peanut Butter Mousse
   This simple dessert combines peanut butter, a little Greek yoghurt, and protein powder, blended to create a creamy mousse. It’s rich in protein and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without the heaviness of traditional desserts.

Small, Protein-Packed Meals in Between

For those with dysphagia, sticking to three big meals a day may feel overwhelming. Instead, break it up by adding small protein-rich meals in between:

• Cottage Cheese and Pureed Fruit
  Cottage cheese is a high-protein, soft food that pairs wonderfully with pureed fruits like peaches or strawberries. It’s light yet filling.

• Scrambled Eggs with Soft Cheeses
  Scrambled eggs are easy to eat and full of protein. For extra richness and calories, mix in soft, spreadable cheeses like ricotta or cream cheese.

• Pureed Lentil or Bean Soups
  Pureed soups are a great way to add extra protein to meals. Lentils, beans, or split peas can be blended into a smooth, creamy consistency, making them easy to swallow and protein-dense.

Make Protein Fun and Accessible

For adults with dysphagia, the key to incorporating more protein is to make it fun and accessible. By offering a range of flavours and textures in snacks, desserts, and small meals, eating becomes less of a chore and more of a delight. Experiment with different protein sources—like Greek yoghurt, nut butters, eggs, or plant-based proteins—to add variety throughout the day.

With some creativity, you can ensure that every bite counts toward maintaining strength, health, and enjoyment.