"Cynicism is a self-imposed blindness, a rejection of the world because we are afraid it will hurt us or be disappointed in us. Cynics always say no ... for as long as you have the strength to, say yes.“
(Stephen Colbert, 2006- Knox College Commencement)
Eating with ALS
This page deals with the options I use for "eating" once I became too weak to chew/grind my food by mouth. I can still swallow so my meals are taken by mouth, but processed to a pudding consistency using a Ninja food processor. I have a g-tube (feeding tube) to supplement my diet with a specific liquid formula. Your clinic nutritionist or neurologist can explain these options. ALS and anesthesia don't mix well, so I had my trache and g-tube inserted at the same time.
Ninja Food Processors
My edible food is processed with a Ninja. You'll need a high-powered processor. It doesn't have to be a Ninja, just powerful. I eat meat, pasta, desserts, anything really, that will grind to a smooth consistency. You'll have to add liquid to process, we use water, milk and broth. I eat a normal amount and maintain weight just fine.
Also, you may need to thicken certain foods or drinks. There are many thickening products sold for just this purpose. I use Thick and Easy by Hormel.
Liquids: How to drink with ALS
I use it. It works great!
The Sip Tip Cup Package makes drinking easier with the simple built-in one-way straw! The Sip-Tip Valve is placed in the bottom of a clear flexible straw, which is placed in the specially designed clear plastic cup and flexible lid. When the plastic lid is pressed or when the person takes a sip, the liquid moves up the straw.
The Sip-Tip Valve keeps the straw full of liquid. It reduces the amount of energy needed to bring liquid to the mouth, coughing and choking, and less air is swallowed. Provides a moderate restriction, giving the user greater control of the liquid flow. The Sip-Tip works with most drinking straws and all parts (tumbler, lid and valve) are dishwasher safe.
People who are particularly frail and find it difficult to generate and maintain suction benefit from the Sip-Tip.
http://www.caregiverproducts.com/sip-tip-cup-package.html
The Gastrostomy Tube
Learning about PEG Tube for People with ALS
Jennifer McKenna from the ALS Association Certified Treatment Center at Pennsylvania Hospital explains.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DitHK-WESA
The feeding tube, g-tube or peg is another life-choice. No judgements please. To each his own. But, the g-tube is considered a straight-forward operation. I had more trouble adjusting to the formula than the tube. There are different feed rates and formulas. Ask your neurologist or nutritionist. You can take liquid or crushed medication through it too. I've given you two sites to peruse, and a couple of illustrations to help.
https://cbhd.org/content/feeding-tube-dilemma-key-questions
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/feeding-tube-placement
