General suggestions

These suggestions also may help improve the taste and smell of food.

• To remove a bad taste in your mouth, drink liquids often or use gum, mints or hard candies.
• If water doesn't taste right, add lemon, lime or cucumber slices to add flavor. You also can use a water flavor packet, water flavor liquid or fruit infuser. Try drinking out of a glass instead of plastic or metal.
• To reduce a bitter or metallic taste, use plastic utensils to eat.
• If smells bother you, try foods that are cool or at room temperature. Hot foods have stronger odor than cold foods. Turn on kitchen fans and cover foods while cooking.
• See a dentist to make sure tooth or mouth conditions aren't causing taste or smell changes. Keep your mouth clean. Ask your healthcare team about what you can do to care for your mouth.
• Check with your healthcare professional to see if your taste changes could be related to your medicines. Do not stop taking medicines unless directed by your healthcare professional.

If these measures don't help or if you're losing weight, talk with your healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.