If you belong to the 19% of Americans experiencing alterations in their taste perception as they age, it can be concerning.

Recent studies indicate that a diminished sense of taste, particularly for salty and sour flavors, may be associated with an increased risk of mortality among older individuals.

Interestingly, the findings differed between genders.

This research, featured today in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, examined 7,340 adults aged 40 and older.

The results revealed that participants who reported a decline in taste sensitivity since their younger years faced a 47% higher risk of death over a six-year follow-up.

Notably, the self-reported inability to detect bitterness was linked to increased mortality only in women, while a decreased ability to taste sourness was associated solely with men.

While our senses of smell and taste are often interconnected—like when a stuffy nose dulls food flavor—this study found an elevated risk of death in individuals who lost their taste but retained their sense of smell.

Could a decline in taste serve as an early warning sign of a more serious health issue? Possibly.

Researchers suggest that taste loss might indicate underlying neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s, as well as cardiovascular diseases like heart failure and stroke.

A decline in taste ability could also negatively influence eating habits—for instance, a reduced sensitivity to salt may lead to excessive sodium intake and increased blood pressure, contributing to nutritional deficits and chronic health issues.

The implications of this study are significant, suggesting that healthcare providers might benefit from routinely screening patients for taste changes to identify those at higher risk.

However, Dr. David Henry Hiltzik, chair of the Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery at Staten Island University Hospital, advises caution in interpreting these findings too broadly.

“The study is somewhat generalized and lacks specificity,” he shared with the Post. “While they associate one symptom with mortality, various factors may explain these outcomes.”

Indeed, correlation does not imply causation, and numerous variables may have contributed to the mortality of some participants.

“The observations are intriguing, but we don’t yet have a concrete causal relationship established,” he added. “While specific tastes may suggest varying health implications, the conclusions drawn are generalized.”

Nonetheless, he acknowledged that the study indicates potential links, particularly regarding neurodegenerative conditions.

“A decline in sensory perception can often correlate with diminished neurological function,” he explained. “A loss of smell has been linked to neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting that taste may follow a similar pattern.”

The research emphasizes the crucial role of taste in overall health, underscoring its significance, particularly as many neglect this sense.

“Changes in taste can be a reliable health indicator, providing another avenue for self-monitoring,” he mentioned. “Paying attention to variations in different taste profiles—such as salty, bitter, sweet, sour, and umami—can reveal insights about your health.”

Additionally, discussing any sensory changes with your healthcare provider is wise.

“You should definitely inform your doctor of any changes in your smell or taste,” he advised. “Issues ranging from headaches to vision problems to severe nasal congestion or memory concerns can all relate to neurological health. These symptoms warrant careful consideration from an ENT perspective.”