Which type of diet consists of soft and mashed foods?

A soft diet is designed for individuals who have difficulty chewing or swallowing. This type of diet includes foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as mashed potatoes, soft fruits, cooked vegetables, tender meats, and various dairy products, which can be easily digested. The aim of a soft diet is to provide nutritional support while minimizing the risk of choking or discomfort during eating.

In contrast, a mechanical diet involves foods that have been softened but may still contain some texture. It is often used for patients transitioning from a liquid diet to regular foods or those needing more variety while still having some chewing limitations. A sodium-restricted diet is focused on limiting salt intake for individuals with specific health concerns like hypertension, while a liquid diet typically includes only beverages, broths, and pureed foods, making it less suitable for those who can manage soft but textured foods.

Therefore, the soft diet is specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals requiring easily consumable foods without compromising nutritional value.