In this episode of “Ologies with Alie Ward,” Alie Ward explores the fascinating world of gustology, the study of taste, with renowned gustologist Dr. Gary Beauchamp. They delve into various topics, including hot wings, Umami, sugar, salt restrictions, and artificial sweeteners. They also discuss the importance of taste and smell in animals and humans, as well as the impact of taste on our daily lives and food choices.
Animals have their own unique sensory world, with some species being more similar to each other in terms of taste preferences. For example, obligate carnivores like cats have no interest in sugar or anything sweet due to their lack of enzymes to break down carbohydrates. On the other hand, dogs have not lost their ability to taste sweet and prefer natural sugars. Dogs and cats also have different taste receptors for meat, reflecting their distinct dietary needs. Studying taste and smell in animals can provide insights into their behavior and environmental interactions.
Taste buds play a crucial role in our perception of flavors, responding to sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami tastes. Contrary to popular belief, there is limited evidence to support the claim that older people don’t respond well to tastes. While older adults may perceive taste intensity differently, their ability to savor and chew sufficiently during eating optimizes their perceived salty taste. Additionally, studies have shown that people’s preference for sweet or salty flavors is influenced by their eating habits and lifetime exposure. Acclimating to a low salt diet is possible, but individual responses may vary. Early exploratory studies on Inuit populations revealed their predominantly meat and fish-based diet, challenging conventional dietary norms.
Non-nutritive sweeteners, such as aspartame, have been a subject of controversy due to their potential health risks. While studies on the effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on hunger and calorie intake yield conflicting results, aspartame use has been associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the evidence regarding the carcinogenic effects of aspartame in humans is limited, and some sources have dismissed potential health risks. The long-term effects of a no sugar diet on the brain are still not fully understood, emphasizing the need for further research in this area.
Smell plays a significant role in our perception of taste, with approximately 80% of taste believed to be influenced by smell. The loss of smell and taste is a common symptom of COVID-19 and served as a diagnostic indicator for the virus. While most people recover their smell and taste after experiencing COVID-19, some individuals may not fully regain these senses. The severity of COVID-19 infection correlates with the extent of taste and smell loss. Understanding the mechanisms behind smell loss during COVID-19 can contribute to improved diagnostics and potential treatments.
Taste and smell are often overlooked senses, but they play a significant role in our daily lives and food choices. Animals have their own unique sensory preferences, and studying taste and smell in different species can provide valuable insights into their behavior and interactions with the environment. The controversy surrounding sweeteners highlights the need for further research to understand their potential health risks and effects on appetite. Additionally, the importance of smell in taste is evident in the context of COVID-19, where loss of smell and taste can be distressing and serve as diagnostic indicators. Overall, taste and smell are fascinating areas of study that continue to uncover new insights into our sensory experiences.