Drinking
Loss of taste and smell can also affect the amount of fluids you drink, which may result in dehydration. It is also possible to have too much caffeine or sugar in hot drinks to try to make up for an impaired sense of taste.
Government recommendations are to drink 8 glasses (totalling about 1.5 – 2.5 litres) of fluid a day. This includes all drinks such as water, juice, tea, coffee, etc, but not alcoholic drinks, as alcohol dehydrates the body. If exercising heavily you will need to drink more than this.
- Avoid very strong tea and coffee or try decaffeinated varieties.
- Avoid adding excess sugar to tea and coffee.
- Energy drinks often contain large amounts of caffeine and should only be drunk in moderation.
- Drinking plenty of liquid can help to remove unpleasant tastes from the mouth.
Alcohol
You may have been advised to avoid alcohol because of your brain injury or any medications you are taking. If you are unsure, ask your GP.
- Tolerance to alcohol can be reduced following brain injury. Try to drink in moderation or not at all.
- Remember that alcohol will have the same effect on you even if you cannot taste it.
- Make sure that you know what is in drinks that are bought for you.
- Try drinking low alcohol or alcohol free beers as an alternative.
