This sense is vulnerable to nutritional status. Malnutrition affects the turnover of the taste bud cells and the integrity of the types of receptors. This in turn can affect the sense of taste and lead to further malnutrition. Cancer patients on chemotherapy or patients recovering from major surgery, for example, are prone to this cycle. The average person 65 years or older takes three or more drugs.
Drugs often are bitter.
This bitterness comes out in the saliva and alters the sense of taste. Research has uncovered effective, practical strategies to enhance the appetites of older persons. These tips can provide an extra boost to flavor and may help increase an older person's enjoyment and interest in eating. Add texture by using crunchy foods. When using almond, vanilla or other extracts, try doubling the amount called for to bring up more flavor.