Smell and Taste Disorder Impact on Eating Habits: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

BACKGROUND

Smell and Taste disorders (SATDs) are underreported. There is a wide range of aetiology but recently we have seen growing prevalence related to Covid-19 infection. SATDs have broad implications for people's lives, including a significant impact on nutritional intake and eating behaviours, which we further explore here.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional observational study using an online questionnaire to gather data. Questions covered aetiology of SATDs, impact on BMI, social eating habits and enjoyment of food.

RESULTS

A total of 794 participants responded of which 75% were female and the most common age selected was 56-70 years (46%). Since the onset of their SATDs, 46% reported no change in weight, 24% weight gain, 15% weight loss, 52% felt it impacted how healthily they ate, 59% dined out less or not at all anymore, 59% no longer enjoy preparing food at home, 58% do not enjoy eating out and 54% do not enjoy eating at the homes of friends/family/partners.

CONCLUSION

We have built on existing literature highlighting the impact SATDs have on participant eating behaviour. Although there is clearly an impact on diet and social behaviours around food/eating it is hard to know the full health and economic impact. Especially when we consider that poor nutritional intake has been linked to cognitive decline in an older age group, it is an important area for further research and it may be beneficial for healthcare providers to offer tailored nutritional advice and discuss possible coping mechanisms upon diagnosis of SATDs.