In the intricate web of health and well-being, the state of our oral health often emerges as a pivotal indicator. The oral cavity, encompassing the lips, gums, teeth, and tongue, plays a significant role not only in communication and digestion but also in reflecting our overall health. Among the sensory experiences that occur within the mouth, taste stands out as a vital sense, offering insights into our physiological balance.
We spoke to Dr Akshata Kamath, a distinguished Consultant in Dental Medicine at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, who delves into the intriguing connections between our sense of taste and potential health conditions.
According to Clinical Otolaryngology, patients with smell/taste disorders struggle to get their condition identified. Here is how taste indicates your health.
Taste As Indicators Of Health
Sweetness
Dr Kamath said, “The sensation of sweetness is a delightful experience, commonly associated with energy-rich sugars. However, this taste can also unveil important health information.”
- Diabetes, a metabolic disorder, disrupts blood sugar regulation, leading to a sweet taste or odour due to glucose accumulation.
- Similarly, conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, marked by excess ketones, and ketosis resulting from low-carbohydrate diets, can generate a sweet taste.
- Even infections like the common cold and flu can elevate saliva glucose levels, leaving a sweet aftertaste.
- The early stages of pregnancy are characterised by heightened sweetness perception due to hormonal shifts.
Bitter
Dr Kamath informed, “Bitterness, often avoided for its taste, can offer digestion benefits and immunological support.
- Poor oral hygiene practices, excessive sugar intake, and inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, causing gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions manifest through bleeding, swollen gums, foul odours, and a bitter or metallic taste.
- The burning mouth syndrome triggers a burning sensation and an unpleasant aftertaste.
- Menopausal women and individuals experiencing stress and anxiety might also encounter a bitter taste.
- Infections like oral thrush and medical treatments such as chemotherapy can result in bitterness.
Sour
Dr Kamath said, “Sourness arises from the detection of hydrogen ions and reflects the presence of acids in food. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), characterised by stomach contents travelling back into the throat and mouth, leads to persistent heartburn and acid regurgitation, resulting in a sour taste. Certain drugs, like antibiotics and gout medications, can be released into saliva, leaving a sour taste on the tongue.”
Also Read: Why Does Your Tongue Suddenly Taste Sour, Expert Explains
Saltiness
Dr Kamath added, “Saltiness adds flavour, yet excessive salt intake poses health risks.” Some of them are as follows:
- Dehydration, stemming from fluid loss, elevated sodium levels and causes a salty taste.
- Conditions like Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder affecting salivary glands, can induce dryness and altered salty taste.
- Zinc deficiency, linked to appetite loss and impaired immune response, can also cause salt taste disturbances.
- Individuals with heart failure exhibit a heightened affinity for salt taste.
Umami
Dr Kamath informed, “Umami, the savoury taste associated with amino acids and proteins, contributes to taste perception and salivary secretion. Loss of umami taste sensation in the elderly can lead to weight loss and health issues. Proper oral hygiene, smoke avoidance, balanced diets, and salt and sugar moderation can counteract altered taste caused by diseases.”
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by registered healthcare professionals and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert if you face any health complications.