Spaceflight could change how astronauts swallow, eat and drink in subtle ways
Imagine trying to swallow a sip of water while your face feels stuffed with congestion, your sense of taste is dulled and your body is floating 250 miles (400 kilometers) above Earth.
Spaceflight alters the human body in significant ways, including changes in how astronauts swallow, eat and drink. While astronauts can swallow in microgravity, the lack of gravity still provides subtle assistance. On Earth, gravity helps saliva pool in the mouth and pushes food and liquid down the esophagus after each swallow. In space, where fluids drift upward, this assistance is reduced, potentially causing challenges.
Swallowing is a complex action involving over 30 muscles and nerves working in perfect sequence. In space, this process may become more complicated. Microgravity can cause nasal congestion and changes in pressure around the mouth and throat, which can make swallowing more difficult. Reduced food intake and weight loss could also compromise nutrition, muscle maintenance, immunity, and performance during long missions.
Scientists are exploring how technologies such as 3D food printing could tailor food textures to help astronauts with swallowing difficulties eat more safely and comfortably.
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