Our taste buds change a lot as we grow older. Are you experiencing this?

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I have realized in the past year or so that my taste buds have been undergoing a change. Not drastically, but it's there. At first, I thought I was just stressed (well, that's a sure thing!) so I have been doing some research and reading on the subject. From what I have learned, this is very common. I now seem to crave fresh foods--a good cold and crunchy salad, a raw carrot or two, a piece of fresh fruit. (Of course, I would have to crave those things since they continue to climb up in price!) Some things I used to really like, I no longer really want to eat. I am sure some of them have come to light because I cleaned up my diet several years ago and dumped a lot of unwanted and unhealthy weight. But it's a bit more than that. I now have come to realize that I do much better if I try to keep my foods as healthy as I can. My body thanks me daily. One of the things I've learned from mylot and from observing others, is that it seems many people really, really crave sugar as they grow older. I know how good it tastes, but like all things, from what I've discovered many people are literally addicted to sugary and sweet things--sodas, candy, chocolate, ice cream, decadent desserts--the list is endless. When we are young, we don't really think about what this does to our bodies, but as we age, we most generally pay for excess sugars in some form, with health issues. Did you know that many older people reach for sweets because they often are feeling down in the dumps, or depressed? They crave emotional comfort, and they reach for sugar in some form. Via the VIP health site-- '' Seniors often face unique emotional challenges, such as loneliness, grief, or reduced independence. Sugary foods are associated with comfort and can trigger the release of endorphins, which provide a temporary emotional boost.'' And via the same site-- ''It’s not uncommon for seniors to have some sort of nutrient deficiency due to various factors, such as poor dietary choices or medical conditions. Sugar cravings can signal the body’s need for essential nutrients, such as magnesium or zinc. Chocolate, in particular, is a common craving linked to nutrient deficiency.'' Losing that weight and becoming way more aware and determined to improve my eating habits was one of the best things I have ever done for myself. My son developed diabetes a few years ago, so it's more important than ever that I pay attention to just what we are eating. I will attach an article that discusses older people and sugar. We all need a treat now and then, but this might possibly help someone else. Have your taste buds shifted, and are you eating more sugars than you used to?