Before you start:

• Keep your mouth as clean and healthy as possible.
• If you wear dentures make sure they are in place and secure.
• Always sit as upright as possible, not tilted back or leaning to one side.
• Avoid eating and drinking if you are very tired, drowsy or feeling very weak.
• Never swallow with your head tilted back.
• Reduce distractions: Turn off the TV, radio and mobile phone. Relaxing music may help.
• Make sure that whatever you are eating or drinking is the correct consistency as advised by the speech and language therapist.
• Avoid straws or spouted beakers unless specifically advised.

During the meal:

• Don’t rush, take your time when you are eating and drinking.
• Ensure that your mouthfuls are not too big.
• Chew food carefully before swallowing.
• Chew and swallow one mouthful at a time.
• Make sure that the swallow has finished before reloading the fork or spoon.
• Take small sips of fluid, don’t guzzle or gulp.
• Avoid talking or laughing when eating or drinking.
• Alternate a mouthful of food with a sip of fluid to help clear any leftover food from your mouth and throat.
• Be observant and watch for warning signs that may indicate your swallowing has changed.
• Please contact your speech and language therapist if anything has changed.

When you are finished:

• Listen to your voice – if it sounds wet or gurgly, cough or throat clear and then swallow again to try and clear it.
• After eating, check and clear any food that may remain in your cheeks or mouth.
• Stay upright for at least 20 minutes.