Is Your Taste Affected by Depression? Taste Disorders - Otolaryngology

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Taste disorders?


Today I had a curry pork cutlet bento, drank cola, and when I tasted the curry, it had a medicinal flavor! It was a bit bitter, and when I drank the cola, it reminded me of the taste of a slushie! I have depression; is this influenced by my depression, or is there an issue with my taste perception?

Wu Chito, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology


Hello: If the taste of most foods you eat has changed, it may be related to taste abnormalities.
However, if only certain specific foods have altered taste, it may not necessarily be a result of taste abnormalities.
If you continue to experience taste abnormalities, it is recommended to consult an otolaryngologist or a neurologist for examination.
Wishing you peace and health.
Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Zheng Jue-Yi.

Reply Date: 2018/08/29

More Info


Depression can indeed affect taste perception, leading to alterations in how food and beverages are experienced. This phenomenon is often referred to as "taste disorders" or "dysgeusia." Individuals with depression may report changes in their taste preferences, including heightened sensitivity to certain flavors, a persistent metallic or bitter taste, or even a complete loss of taste (ageusia). These changes can be attributed to a combination of psychological and physiological factors.

When someone is experiencing depression, their overall mental state can influence sensory processing. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play a significant role in mood regulation, also affect taste perception. In fact, serotonin is involved in the signaling pathways of taste buds. Therefore, a decrease in serotonin levels, which is common in depression, can lead to altered taste sensations. Additionally, depression can affect appetite and eating habits, which may further influence how flavors are perceived. For instance, if someone is feeling down, they may not enjoy food as much, leading to a negative feedback loop where the lack of enjoyment reinforces depressive symptoms.

In your case, the experience of tasting curry as having a medicinal or bitter flavor could be linked to your depressive state. It is essential to consider that certain ingredients in the curry could also contribute to this perception. Curry is made from various spices, some of which can have strong, sometimes bitter flavors. However, if this is a new experience for you, it may be worth exploring further.

If you find that your taste perception continues to change or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as a lack of appetite or significant weight loss, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine whether these changes are primarily due to your depression or if there may be other underlying issues, such as a taste disorder or even a side effect of any medications you may be taking.

In summary, depression can significantly impact taste perception, leading to changes in how food is experienced. If you are concerned about these changes, it is essential to seek professional guidance to explore the underlying causes and potential treatment options. Addressing both the psychological aspects of depression and any physical symptoms can lead to a more comprehensive approach to improving your overall well-being.

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