Eating, Drinking, and Swallowing Difficulties: The Impacts on, and of, Religious Beliefs

Eating, drinking, and swallowing (EDS) are fundamental to the biomechanical model of the body. They are the processes by which the body obtains fuel essential for existence but are so much more than this mere function. What, when, and how we eat, with whom, even what we do not eat, and when we do not eat, are not physiological restrictions. The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination of patients based on a list of protected characteristics, including religion. There is a paucity of literature addressing religion and EDS issues despite most religions having laws regarding food sourcing, preparation, consumption, and fasting. The diverse perspectives of our patients may influence engagement with services unless we appreciate the significance of the interplay of EDS and religious belief. Our paper addresses religion and EDS with a focus on the activities that lead up to food or drink consumption. Religion, as with many important aspects of humanity, is a highly individual experience. Thus, we need to establish what is important to each person that we deal with, whilst using general knowledge of a religion to guide us. An informed multidisciplinary team including stakeholders from chaplaincy services is critical for optimal patient care.