It would be interesting to study and see if rapamycin use delays smell and taste deterioration.
All senses decline with age, but taste loss is surprisingly common. A 2016 study estimated that about three-fourths of older adults have taste issues — more than any other sensory deficit.
What causes taste and smell loss?
In general, experts say there are five major reasons for these impairments: trauma, viruses, inflammation, oral health and age.
Are there any treatments?
While short-term issues like congestion can usually be addressed, doctors often can do little to reverse taste or smell loss, said Linda Bartoshuk, a research professor at George Washington University.
People often try zinc supplements and acupuncture, but the evidence that they help is so low quality that Dr. Bartoshuk doesn’t recommend them. Some people also try B12 and iron supplements, but they help only if you’re deficient, Dr. Joseph said.
Another common option to improve your sense of smell is olfactory training, which is physical therapy for the nose in which you sniff fragrances twice a day. There’s little downside, and some patients do improve, Dr. Joseph said, particularly if you are younger, if you had a viral infection in the past year or if you stick with smell training for longer periods (up to six to nine months).
But results can vary: A recent trial found no overall benefit, although people did remember specific scents better.
With limited medical options, the kitchen might be the best place for people to counter taste and smell loss. Using more herbs and spices, for example, can enhance flavor, as well as eating umami-rich foods like mushrooms, tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, Dr. Joseph said. You might also consider using MSG, which has only one-third the amount of sodium of table salt.
Full article: My Sense of Taste is Dulling as I Age. Can I Stop It?