Ketosis- Funny Taste In Mouth and Dry Lips

[PeteinVA]

I guess this is a side effect of the ketosis? The last few days my mouth has just had a horrible taste (I down water and brush my teeth constantly to try and get rid of it). MY lips are also all dried up.

It also could be this awesome dry hot weather we've had the last few days. I'm just curious if y'all experience the odd taste in the mouth.

[Georgiana]

Re: Ketosis- Funny Taste In Mouth and Dry Lips

I hope no one is eating...

There are many ways our bodies excrete excess ketones: through urine and sweat, in stools, in our breath. The ketones excreted through the lungs, besides changing the odor of our breath, can also swim laps in our saliva. It is these swimming ketones that cause the funny taste in the mouth. Some people say it's metallic, others think it's a sweet taste.

The dryness could be a result of the diuretic effect of Atkins, which is likely intensified by heat. Drink enough water and take your vitamin supplements (check that you are taking enough potassium, magnesium, etc.). For dry lips, avoid licking them and avoid very salty/hot foods. My grandma says applying duck or goose fat is the best remedy, but olive oil works just fine for me.

[msanjelpie]

Re: Ketosis- Funny Taste In Mouth and Dry Lips

Funny taste in mouth = ketosis - Dry lips = dehydration. Drink more water until your lips are normal again. My lips used to be so dry they started cracking. I upped my water and they are almost normal again. Increased water also helps your mouth to have more saliva which will help with removing the horrid taste. So water helps both conditions...