After COVID-19

Symptoms: Loss of taste and smell

After COVID-19, you may notice:

Your sense of smell is closely tied to your sense of taste. If you can't smell food, you will likely have trouble tasting it. Loss of smell or taste can lead to a low appetite (you don’t feel hungry), and might cause you to eat less. This puts you at risk for not getting enough nutrition and you could lose weight without meaning to.

Try these tips to get good nutrition when you have changes in taste and smell:

Prepare colourful food.
Use strong flavours, such as cinnamon, chili, mustard, or vinegar.
Try food at different temperatures, such as hot, room temperature, and cold.
Use different food textures, such as crunchy or soft. (If you’re having trouble swallowing, see the section on eating, drinking, and swallowing problems.)
Try to focus on your food—the taste, how it feels in your mouth, and what it looks like.

Current as of: March 23, 2021

Author: Neurosciences, Rehabilitation & Vision Strategic Clinical Network, and Allied Health Professional Practice and Education, Health Professions Strategy and Practice

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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