Article: Loss of smell and taste can sometimes be caused by deficiencies in zinc. Zinc is very important for proper bodily functioning, but isn't stored for long periods of time in your body. You therefore need a constant zinc supply from your diet.  Foods like oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, tahini, dark chocolate, crab, lobster, pork, and beans are all rich in zinc. Sometimes a zinc supplement is required, but don't take one without first consulting your doctor. Consuming too much zinc, more than 100 to 200 milligrams (0.0035 to 0.0071 oz) a day can lead to reduced iron and copper levels, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues. A dry mouth can cause you to lose your sense of taste and smell. Staying hydrated is also a great way to remain healthy in general and possibly prevent colds that can diminish your sense of taste.  Your fluid intake is likely sufficient if you're rarely thirsty and your urine is clear or pale yellow. Some people might need more or less than 8 glasses of water a day to be adequately hydrated. On average, women need about 11.5 cups (2.7 L) of fluid a day and men need about 15.5 cups (3.7 L). and floss regularly. Maintaining good dental hygiene is important for preventing gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease caused by plaque build-up on your gum lines. Excessive plaque on your gums as well as tooth disease and deterioration can all lead to impaired taste, so keep your mouth healthy by flossing and brushing with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes twice daily. Try different strategies until you find one that works for you, such as going cold turkey, using a nicotine replacement therapy like gum or a patch that gradually reduces the amount of nicotine you consume, or getting a prescription medicine like Chantix or Zyban that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by changing your brain chemistry.  Not only is smoking bad for your overall health, it can impair your ability to taste foods. You can regain your sense of taste in as little as 2 days after quitting.  It can certainly be challenging, but don’t give up trying to quit smoking because there are lots of strategies and one will work for you. Some smokers have success quitting by using hypnosis, acupuncture, and meditation to help break the mental and physical habits associated with smoking cigarettes. Your sense of taste naturally diminishes as you get older.To compensate for losing taste buds, you can get more flavor out of your food by topping it with spices and herbs, like basil, oregano, cilantro, and black pepper.  If your diet permits, put cheese, bacon bits, butter, olive oil, and toasted nuts on vegetables to get more flavor out of your food. Avoid adding too much salt or sugar, which can be unhealthy. Avoid dishes like casseroles that combine many ingredients and mask individual flavors. This can dilute the taste.  Make sure your spices aren’t too old, since they lose their flavor over time.

What is a summary?
Eat foods rich in zinc. Drink about 8 cups of 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of water a day. Brush Your Teeth Quit smoking if you're a smoker. Use extra spices and and flavors in your meals as you age.