October Swallowing Newsletter 2025

Oct 12

Building Strength & Awareness in Swallowing

Swallowing is more than just moving food from mouth to stomach—it’s a finely tuned system of muscles and nerves working together. Like any muscle group, these can be strengthened and trained with simple daily exercises and sensory input.

Strengthening Exercises for Swallowing

Straw Sucking:
Use different sizes of straws. Start with a wide straw and gradually move to thinner ones to build suction strength. Try water, then progress to thicker liquids like smoothies or yogurt drinks.

Effortful Swallow:
Take a sip of water and swallow hard—like you’re trying to swallow a big pill. Repeat 5–10 times, 2–3 times a day.
Tongue Push-Ups:
Push your tongue against the roof of your mouth and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times. This helps strengthen tongue base movement, crucial for safe swallowing.

Feeding the Brain: Texture & Taste

Our brain thrives on sensory feedback, and swallowing is no exception. Changing temperatures and flavors stimulates the nerves and improves coordination.

Cold vs. Hot: Alternate between sipping cold water and warm tea. The contrast “wakes up” the swallow reflex.
Lemon & Citrus: A few drops of lemon juice in water can sharpen sensory feedback, making the swallow faster and stronger.
Texture Play:
- Try smooth (pudding), soft (mashed potatoes), and slightly crunchy (soft crackers).
- Alternate textures during meals to keep the swallowing muscles engaged.

Safety Tips

Always practice in a safe, upright position.

Avoid distractions during exercises.

Work at your own pace—never force food or drink if it feels unsafe.

Closing Thought

Every swallow is practice. With small, daily exercises and sensory variety, you can build strength and coordination that make eating not just safer, but more enjoyable.

esther Verbovszky