the sense of taste

[Guest guest]

I find it interesting that with all the interest today in understanding the

differences in people, and all the research capability that can be directed at

this, that there isn't more interest in understanding the sense of taste.

 

I have been told (I remember nothing about the source) there is a genetic basis

that controls whether people love fresh cilantro, or gag when they smell or

taste it. There don't seem to be much of an in-between on people's reaction to

cilantro.

 

Durian also seems to be intensely palatable, or intensely not.

 

Since the sense of taste is closely related to body chemistry and an

interpretation by the body of its nutrition needs, this is why a high calcium

food can taste " good " or " bad " depending on the bodies calcium levels.

 

I'm wondering if this is lots more complex than we realize, and our sense of

taste is more sensitive than we realize.

 

This could be why some foods always taste " good " or " bad " to different people.

 

I gag at the smell of cilantro. Maybe in some subtle way it is always

antithetical to my body chemistry.

 

Is there any organized research into these aspects of the sense of taste?

 

May your day be filled with clarity, grace, progress, and warm laughter,

Roger

 

 

 

 

 

[Guest guest]

Interesting...

 

>I gag at the smell of cilantro. Maybe in some subtle way it is

>always antithetical to my body chemistry.

 

I used to always dislike cilantro. I didn't like any dishes that

contained it. Then a few years ago I juiced some with carrots and

liked it. Then tried it in salads, etc. and liked it. I'm not sure

why the switch, but I now enjoy it. Cleaning up the body could have

an effect. Being on a raw food diet could affect it.

 

>Is there any organized research into these aspects of the sense of taste?

 

I remember a science class in high school or junior high. The teacher

passed out these test strips and had everyone touch it to their

tongue. He then polled the class to see who disliked the taste and

who didn't mind it. It was about half and half. If I remember

correctly people either don't taste it or they do and dislike it.

Either a person has the gene for it or not. It is a reminder that our

taste buds are not created equal.

 

Sooooo... those who enjoy durian have GOOD taste, those who do not...

 

just kidding!

 

Jeff