Dehydration, zinc deficiency, poor oral hygiene, and gastroesophageal reflux can cause a sour taste in the mouth, leading to discomfort.
A sour taste in the mouth can also be caused by a number of different health conditions. Below are some common causes.
Dehydration
Dehydration causes dryness in the mouth and throat, leading to changes in taste. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, saliva stimulates taste receptors on the tongue. Too little saliva can alter how flavors are perceived, making everything taste sour.
Adults should drink at least 6 glasses of water a day to increase their body's hydration and reduce this discomfort.
Infection
When you have a cold or sinus infection, your body automatically produces various proteins that affect taste and cause bitterness or sourness. Wash your hands frequently and keep warm, especially during the rainy or cold season. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Smoking
Smoking damages the lungs, yellows teeth, causes bad breath, and reduces taste, leaving the mouth with a sour, unpleasant sensation. The only way to improve this is to quit smoking.
Gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter malfunctions. Stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus, irritating the lining and causing symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, burning sensation in the throat, bitter taste in the mouth, sore throat, cough, bad breath, and shortness of breath.
Patients should adopt healthy lifestyle changes such as eating slowly, chewing thoroughly, avoiding alcohol, tobacco, spicy and fatty foods. Avoid wearing tight clothing, do not lie down after eating, and sleep on your left side to reduce reflux.
The sour taste in the mouth reduces the enjoyment of eating. Photo: Freepik
Poor oral hygiene
Not brushing and flossing regularly can easily lead to food particles accumulating in the teeth, resulting in an unpleasant taste. Poor oral hygiene can also cause sour mouth.
Everyone should brush their teeth at least twice a day, use dental floss at least once a day, and have regular dental checkups.
Hormonal changes
A sour taste in the mouth can also be related to hormones. Women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause often experience changes in taste. Pregnant women may experience a sour taste in their mouth during the first trimester.
Zinc deficiency
Nutrient deficiencies can affect taste. Zinc deficiency, in particular, contributes to a sour taste after eating. Causes of zinc deficiency include diets low in meat, fish, and seafood, liver disease, ulcerative colitis, diuretic use, and chemotherapy.
Age
Our senses change as we age, causing the taste of food to no longer be as delicious as before, sometimes even tasting sour.
Huyen My (According to Verywell Fit, Cleveland Clinic )
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