Spaceflight could change how astronauts swallow, eat and drink in subtle ways

A speech-language pathologist on how complex swallowing is – and how small changes from gravity can complicate the process.

By: Sundeep Venkatesan, Binghamton University, State University of New York, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 3, 2026

Words: 931

Last Updated: 49 minutes ago

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By Sundeep Venkatesan, Binghamton University, State University of New York

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.

That scenario is part of everyday life for astronauts aboard the International Space Station.

Spaceflight changes the human body in dramatic ways. Muscles shrink, bones lose density and bodily fluids shift …

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