Easy to Chew Diet

Care instructions

Some people may have problems chewing foods that are hard or crunchy. Easy to chew foods are soft and moist so they are easier to eat.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Choose soft and moist foods. Choose a variety of vegetables and fruits, grains foods, and protein foods each day. The following are suggestions of foods that you may want to choose:

• Vegetables and fruits
  • soft, cooked vegetables like carrots or squash
  • soft, raw vegetables like cucumbers or tomatoes
  • finely shredded salads like coleslaw
  • soft, ripe fruit without seeds or skin like bananas or pears
• Grain foods
  • cooked cereals like oatmeal
  • cold cereals that soften in milk like bran flakes
  • soft bread products like bread, buns, or muffins
  • soft, cooked rice or pasta
• Protein foods
  • milk, smooth yogurt, or cheese
  • soft, cooked beans or lentils
  • smooth nut butters spread on food
  • diced tender meat or poultry
  • soft and moist meatloaf or meatballs
• Desserts and snacks
  • pudding
  • soft cookies or soft baked desserts

Avoid foods that are dry, crumbly, sticky, gummy, hard, or chewy.

Learn more about the Easy to chew diet.

To see this information online and learn more, visit MyHealth.Alberta.ca/health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=custom.ab_easy_chew_diet_inst.

For 24/7 nurse advice and general health information call Health Link at 811.

Current as of: May 08, 2025
Author: Nutrition Services, Alberta Health Services

This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.