Bitterness is the most sensitive of the classes of taste, many people find bitter foods to be too sharp, unpleasant and disagreeable. Common bitter foods are coffee, Swedish bitters, citrus, lemon juice, bitter lettuces such as rocket, kale, raddichio, endive and chicory.
Taste changes in the mouth may not be caused by a serious problem, howeve it does warrant investigation as it may turn you off your food and take the pleasure out of eating. Bitter, metallic and sour tastes are all acidic in nature. An impaired sense of taste may be due to a Zinc mineral deficiency or low Vitamin B2 and Folic acid levels. The taste buds are responsible for experiencing flavour from foods consumed.
CAUSES OF A BITTER TASTE IN THE MOUTH
- Heavy metal poisoning
- Food poisoning
- Gastritis (stomach inflammation)
- Heartburn or reflux
- Hiatus hernia
- Jaundice, liver congestion
- Tooth abcess or dental cavities
- Helicobacter pylori (ulcers)
- Pneumonia
- Dehydration
- Imbalance of digestive flora or digestive pH (acidic system)
- Tobacco smoke may alter taste
- Side effect of medications
- Oral thrush or Lichen planus (mouth and skin rash)
- Pregnancy
LIFESTYLE TIPS FOR A BITTER TASTE IN THE MOUTH
- Address any nutritional deficiencies such as Zinc
- Follow up with your Healthcare practitioner regarding any underlying medical conditions which may be a contributing factor
- Have a heavy metal and allergy test
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR A BITTER TASTE IN THE MOUTH
- Probiotics may to help recorrect any digestive flora imbalances contributing to taste changes
- Chlorophyll liquid may help to deodorise the mouth, cleanse and alkalise an acid system
- Digestive enzymes may help to ensure that you are properly breaking your foods down
- Take slippery elm powder before eating as it may help to reduce any reflux or digestive ulcers which may change the taste receptors
- Ensure that you are properly hydrated
