DEAR DR. GOTT: A few years ago I noticed a distinct change of flavors in many of the foods and drinks I consume, especially colas. Those affected products tasted so bad that I had to stop eating or drinking them altogether. I had been using zinc products that claim to shorten colds but had never used the nose sprays; however, when I read about the people who had used the sprays and lost their sense of taste, I stopped using all zinc products. Gradually my sense of taste is returning to normal. I still cannot drink Pepsi, my favorite soda. I hope this can help others who have lost their sense of taste.

DEAR READER: Zinc is a metal/mineral that the body requires in order to maintain normal functioning. Most individuals obtain all that they need through diet.
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