Taste Buds and Weight Problems
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Do you find that Brussels sprouts taste bitter?
Researchers have found that we have an inherited taste trait that makes us more or less sensitive to the perceived bitterness and sweetness of foods. And of course how foods taste affects our food choices.
If you are very sensitive to taste, you will likely have an easier time maintaining your desired body weight. So perhaps it's a good thing that Brussels sprouts taste bitter after all.
Studies have shown that those with less sensitive taste tend to have higher body weight. Their inability to perceive the flavor of fat and the sweetness in sweet foods can lead to greater consumption of fats and sweets. This translates into more calories, and a more difficult time reaching or maintaining goal weight.
It can help us to understand why we behave as we do, and it's often the first step toward doing better. If you have less sensitive taste, it may help you to realize it. You may need to be more careful than others about eating whatever you like.
The good news is that with proper dietary control you can override any inborn influence of taste on your food choices and body weight.
Healthy regards,
Megan Porter, RD
