Anxiety, Stress, and Altered Taste: The Science Behind Stress Eating and Solutions

Dr. Tracey Marks, a psychiatrist, explores the surprising ways stress and anxiety can manifest physically, specifically by altering one's sense of taste. She highlights that while common anxiety symptoms include a racing heart or upset stomach, a less recognized effect is a change in taste perception. This phenomenon is rooted in the brain, as cranial nerves originating there control taste receptors, making taste fundamentally a brain function rather than solely a tongue sensation. The podcast draws a parallel to COVID-related taste loss, emphasizing that anxiety has long been a cause of such sensory disturbances.

The episode delves into two primary ways anxiety and stress impact taste: a decreased perception of saltiness or sweetness, and a less common but more distressing persistent metallic or bitter taste. The former can lead to stress eating, as individuals unconsciously consume more sugary and salty foods to compensate for duller perception. This is exacerbated by the adaptable nature of taste buds, which can desensitize with constant exposure to certain tastes. The metallic or bitter taste, on the other hand, can deter eating altogether. Physiologically, these changes are linked to elevated levels of norepinephrine, which dulls sweet/salty perception, and cortisol, which can contribute to gingivitis and subsequently a metallic taste.

Dr. Marks emphasizes that these taste alterations are not permanent and typically resolve with reduced stress and anxiety. She offers a range of solutions, starting with general stress reduction techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and yoga, which are detailed in her book "Why Am I So Anxious?". Behavioral interventions such as vagal maneuvers (e.g., splashing cold water, humming) are also suggested. Furthermore, she introduces three plant-based solutions: aromatherapy using essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and clary sage; the adaptogen Ashwagandha, known for decreasing cortisol levels; and Valerian root, which acts on the GABA neurotransmitter system.

The broader implications underscore the profound mind-body connection and the importance of addressing chronic stress for overall well-being. The podcast highlights how persistent stress can perpetuate these taste changes, contributing to unhealthy eating patterns. A crucial caveat is provided regarding herbal remedies, stressing that despite being natural, they have real physiological effects and can interact with medications, necessitating consultation with a doctor. This underscores the importance of informed decision-making and professional guidance when integrating natural supplements into one's health regimen.

"Stress and anxiety can cause a lot of wacky things with your body."

"I bet you didn't know that it can alter your taste."

"Even though it seems like taste is in your tongue, the nerves that control your taste receptors originate in your brain as cranial nerves. So really taste is in your brain."

"Researchers have shown that anxiety and stress lower your perception of saltiness or sweetness."

"Our taste buds are very adaptable."

"This isn't a permanent alteration and usually goes away as your stress or anxiety resolves."

"The taste changes and dry mouth are thought to be related to increases in norepinephrine and cortisol, which are part of your body's stress and anxiety response."

"Adaptogens are substances that are believed to help the body adapt to stress and restore balance."

"I need to mention that although herbal options are natural, they still have real physiological effects, and some of them can interact with your medications."