Real Life Nutrition Questions Answered
printReal Life Fitness Questions Answered
Emma Brown
Nutritionist
Janet Aylott
Nutritionist
Kelly Marshall
Fitness Consultant
Q.
Whats this strange sweet taste in my mouth?
Hi there, I've recently noticed a strange sweet taste in my mouth. I'm pretty confident I'm not diabetic. I'm generally in very good health and have above average physical fitness. I've recently upped my training schedule and started more weight training in an effort to reduce my body fat percentage below 20%. I'm not maintaining a dramatic calorie deficit, only 200-300 calories below maintenance. This morning I did quite a lot of cardio on an empty stomach and the taste is particularly bad this afternoon. Any idea what the cause could be? Is it diet related and should I be concerned? I'd be very grateful for any insight you can offer.
A.
Our expert says...
Hi
It’s possible to get a sweetish taste in your mouth when you produce ketones as a result of breaking down fat in the face of an inadequate carbohydrate intake. If you get this symptom combined with unusual levels of thirst it can indicate diabetes. In the first instance I would try eating a bit more carb (bread, pasta, breakfast cereals etc) especially before exercise and I suspect this taste will go away. If it persists I would see your GP, even though you seem to be in good health.
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