Burning tongue is not only uncomfortable, but can also cause distraction and pain as a woman transitions through menopause. When the feeling lasts longer than a couple of days, it's time to take action, which can be as easy as modifying the foods you eat each day.
Read on to learn about top foods for soothing the burning tongue sensation, and get back to enjoying eating and drinking again.
Soy
Most cases of chronic burning tongue sensation are symptoms of a larger condition, usually relating to hormonal imbalance. Soy, a product rich in plant-based estrogens, can help the body stabilize natural hormone levels, thus relieving symptoms such as burning tongue. This is particularly important for women going through menopause, a time when estrogen levels dip drastically.
Tomatoes
A great addition to salads and pizzas alike, tomatoes can also help to soothe burning tongue sensation. Their high concentration of iron increases oxygen flow to tissue cells, improving normal function in muscles like the tongue and those in the cheeks, thereby alleviating discomfort. They are also rich in vitamin B3 (niacin), whose deficiency can cause symptoms of burning tongue.
Spinach
Adding to spinach's attributes are the high values of vitamin B9 (folic acid) it contains, which helps the body make new cells. Since burning tongue sensation is sometimes thought to come from deterioration of bitter taste buds at the back of the tongue, conscious consumption of vitamin B9 can make sure those buds regenerate healthily.
Bananas
With their low pH value and palatable taste, bananas are a perfect substitution for the many fruits that contain a level of acidity that further irritates the mouth. Also, packed with additional nutrients like potassium and magnesium, bananas not only cool down the mouth, but also the whole body by helping to replenish electrolytes lost from sweating. This is great news for women going through menopause and the notorious hot flashes that come with it!
Burning tongue sensation is never easy to live with, but it can be managed quickly and easily by switching up your menu to include the foods above. For longer-lasting relief, pursue burning tongue treatments, which effectively battle the underlying cause, hormonal imbalance. Before you know it, you can be healthily eating your way to relief.
Sources
- Mahmood, L. (2014). The metabolic processes of folic acid and Vitamin B12 deficiency. Journal of Health Research and Reviews in Developing Countries, 1(1), 5-9. Retrieved February 21, 2019, from http://www.jhrr.org/article.asp?issn=2394-2010;year=2014;volume=1;issue=1;spage=5;epage=9;aulast=Mahmood
- NHS. (2017). B vitamins and folic acid. Retrieved February 21, 2019, from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-b/