The doctor gave me several packets of the Nestle/Resource Thicken Up Clear and it seems like a good product, but expensive. We would have to use 16 packets a day or 16 scoops from the can. If my math is correct, the 4.4 oz can would last about 5 1/2 days at about $12-$13 a can. So that's about $68 per month.
I've heard that Thick It is ok, but separates and leaves chunks at the bottom. I also heard it doesn't hold up in the refrigerator.
I don't really know much about other products. I would love suggestions. My grandma is suppose to thicken her beverages to nectar like consistency. I usually give her Crystal Light drinks, V8, V8 Splash, and Propel (it's like Gatorade).
Experiment a little to discover the optimal thickness for your grandmother, she may be fine with a slightly looser texture. To cut down on costs rely more on beverages that are already somewhat thick, the V8 is good and commercial or homemade smoothies need less additional thickener. My mom's nursing home routinely thickened soups with thicken up but it is easy to add a little flour or cornstarch or simply puree them to the proper consistency.
The Resource thickenup seemed to cause loose stools FYI.
Worked great :)
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