Loss of appetite when food does not taste good

Much of flavour comes from smell, so a blocked nose or recent respiratory illness can make familiar food seem bland, metallic or unpleasant. Dry mouth, mouth problems and some medicines can also affect taste. Nausea, reflux and stomach infections may make meals unappealing even when taste is unchanged. COVID-19, influenza, gastritis and gastroenteritis are among conditions that can be associated with appetite or taste changes; these symptoms alone do not confirm any one diagnosis.

Describe whether the problem affects sweet, salty, sour or bitter tastes, whether smell has changed, and whether you have congestion, mouth pain, heartburn, vomiting or diarrhoea.

Keep hydrated and try small portions with different temperatures and textures. Use herbs, citrus or mild seasoning if these are comfortable, and choose nutrient-dense foods you can tolerate. Brush and floss gently, rinse after meals, and address nasal congestion with advice from a pharmacist. Do not rely on unregulated supplements or stop prescribed treatment without discussing it with a clinician.

Make an appointment if altered taste or low appetite persists, causes your diet to shrink, or follows a medicine change. Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, inability to drink, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, blood in vomit or stools, or severe abdominal pain.

Ask whether your nose, mouth, medicines or digestion could be affecting flavour; whether testing is needed; and how to maintain nutrition until taste and appetite improve.