Foods for Someone Who Chokes Easily

When you are battling asthma, throat surgery, pneumonia, or even just a nasty cold and cough, eating can be difficult. Favorites foods can pose a choking hazard and you must be very careful when selecting meals and snacks. There are many tasty and nourishing types of foods available for people who may choke easily, whether it is a temporary or long-term condition.

Soup

• It may be an old-fashioned cure-all, but soup is ideal for people who have trouble swallowing. It is warm and often salty, which is the perfect combination for colds and coughs. The possibilities of types of soups are quite varied, including everything from chicken and tomato soup to lentil and barley. There is adequate nutrition in soup and it will help you get much-needed vegetables, vitamins and minerals when you are not able to eat as you normally would.

Yogurt

• Sometimes cold food feels better on raspy and sore throats. Yogurt is great because it requires no chewing. People with very sensitive throats, or those who have just had surgery and cannot swallow anything whole, should look for the smooth, blended brands of yogurt that do not contain large pieces of fruit.

Mashed Potatoes

• When you're really hungry, you may need something more substantive to satisfy you; mashed potatoes provide some extra bulk. Top them with sour cream or butter. Choose a type that does not have whole pieces of potatoes in it. Rather opt for the instant variety, which come in various flavors--such as sour cream, au gratin and butter.

Smoothies

• Like yogurt, smoothies provide pain relief by using cold to numb the throat. Mix up a variety of fruit and juices in the smoothies or combine them with ice cream. Throw in some powdered wheat germ for even more nutrients and vitamins. Ice pops and milkshakes are also some favorite cold treats that would work for someone who chokes easily.

Applesauce

• Store-bought applesauce is a perfect food to provide nutrients to someone having trouble swallowing. It is probably the easiest food to swallow, which is why so many babies learn to eat this early on. If you would like to make your own, just grab some apples, cut them into cubes, and add sugar and cinnamon. Boil the ingredients a pot until they are soft, and mash them until smooth. It your homemade applesauce warm or cooled.

Pudding and Gelatin

• As far as desserts go, pudding is an enjoyable treat that is easy to swallow and comes in a variety of flavors. Gelatin is also a smooth dessert. Top either option with whipped cream as an added extra.