How something tastes is the litmus test that determines whether we devour the plate, or put down the fork.
The food industry has made a science of concocting ingredients in their products that hit the marks for palatability, taste preferences, and likeability. After all, food is a consumer product.
After age 60, one may begin to lose the ability to distinguish the taste of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter foods. A dulling of the sensory receptors oftentimes results in seniors using more salt for flavor.
Sweet, savory, and salty substances are innately preferred. Bitter and sour substances are mostly rejected. Food scientists know that the density of taste buds on the tongue, genetic differences in taste receptors, and differences in taste receptor sensitivity contribute to an individual’s taste perception and food preferences.
Taking it a step further, food developers know how different chemical compounds affect different taste buds and areas of the brain.
Taste is the most important factor in consumers deciding whether or not they like the product, resulting in sales. Most of us realize that certain foods seem addictive. “Betcha can’t eat just one!” is Lay’s Potato Chip’s popular slogan that is often repeated at parties.
A new article published in the Harvard Health Review reminds us that salty diets are linked to narrowed arteries in the heart and neck, contributing to atherosclerosis. This can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
I review diets as part of my holistic health care plan for clients and steer seniors to more healthy alternatives. Removing the salt shaker can add years to their lives, and lower the need for certain medications, depending on their health condition. Human nature reveals however that one cannot eliminate something without a viable and palatable replacement. A great alternative to salt for seasoning is Bragg Organic Sprinkle. This seasoning has 24 herbs and spices and is salt-free and can be found on Amazon and your local grocery store.