Reclaiming Your Good Taste

Your taste buds may change, but your meals don’t have to lose their spark.

By Morgan Halaska

Did you know your taste buds constantly change? This causes your sense of taste to evolve and can make it harder to taste sweet, salty, sour, bitter or savory flavors.

Over time, taste buds shrink, grow back more slowly and don’t work as well. This can also cause the mouth to make less saliva, and saliva helps carry flavors to the taste buds.

For some people, these changes can impact appetite and eating habits. This can lead to a loss of appetite or poor nutrition, which can affect your health. If you’re losing your sense of taste, don’t worry.

Easy ways to add flavor to every dish

Try these simple ways to make meals more exciting and enjoyable. You might even discover new favorite foods along the way.

Color

Add colorful veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli and tomatoes to your meals. They look great on your plate and are packed with nutrients.

Texture

Include crunchy foods like roasted chickpeas, nuts and seeds to make meals more interesting.

Herbs

Use fresh herbs like basil, cilantro and parsley to add flavor without extra salt.

Spice

Try spices like turmeric, paprika and cinnamon to make bold flavors. Garlic and ginger can also add a lot of taste.

Acid

Add a splash of lemon, lime or vinegar to brighten your dishes.

Fluids

If dry mouth is affecting how food tastes, try choosing foods with a higher water content. Consider incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet, along with soups and sauces that are easier to enjoy. Staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day may also help.

Changes in taste are natural, but they don’t have to take the joy out of eating. By experimenting with colors, textures and flavors, you can make meals exciting again and keep your body healthy.

Fun facts about taste buds

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.