What type of food falls under Level 3 of the solid texture in the dysphagia diet?

Level 3 of the dysphagia diet, also referred to as "Advanced" or "Soft and Bite-Sized" level, includes foods that are soft, moist, and easy to chew and swallow but still retain some texture. This level is designed for individuals who have mild to moderate swallowing difficulties and can handle a greater variety of food textures compared to the pureed and mechanically altered levels.

Moist foods such as soups and tender meats are ideal for this level because they provide sufficient moisture to aid in swallowing while also allowing for some chewing, which is important for the sensory experience and nutrition. The tenderness of the meats helps ensure that individuals can chew the food easily without risking choking or discomfort.

In contrast, pureed foods lack texture and do not offer the necessary chewing experience, while ground meats may still be too dense or require more chewing effort for some individuals. Hard crusty bread would be inappropriate due to its potential to cause choking, as it requires a significant amount of chew to break down. Therefore, the inclusion of moist foods in this dietary level supports safe swallowing while promoting nutritional adequacy.