Expert: Ralph Salier-Hellendag - 5/19/2007

Question
Why does our taste buds change? I use to like carrots but now I don't.  

Answer
Hi Alexis,

Taste Buds change every 5 to 7 years and during these tansitional periods (lasting up to 6 months) we find that we begin to like the flavor of some things but not others and vis-a-versa.  When your new taste buds erupt, is when you should be trying all kinds of new foods and flavors.  You may find that things you did not like before you will now and even foods like carrots you used to like and don't now, can be changed.  Like try carrot cake or other things made with carrots and you may find that altered versions you will.

At the same time you tastebuds change so do the olfactory nerves in your nose so a lot of times, you may think you have a cold during this transition but in reality it is your olfactory sensor nerves being changed out.

Why do  they change out?  The nerves wear out over time and the bud itself wears out over time too. So, they need replacement.  Just like skin or hair or the cells of the rest of the body.