Category: Dysgeusia

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, around 200,000 Americans visit a doctor for taste or smell problems each year. While various issues can cause an altered sense of taste, a persistent salty flavor is often linked to specific nutritional deficiencies, most notably a lack of zinc.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, scombroid poisoning, a common form of foodborne illness caused by mishandled fish, can manifest with a distinctly metallic or peppery taste. This altered taste perception, known as dysgeusia, can be alarming but has several potential causes beyond simple spoilage.

While many causes exist for a persistent unpleasant taste, studies indicate that certain nutritional deficiencies are a common culprit. If you are wondering what deficiency causes a metallic taste in your mouth, key contenders include a lack of zinc, iron, and specific B vitamins, among other potential issues.