I have a question. My lips are always dry and when I lick them they taste bitter. The bitter taste is usually gone in a few seconds but it’s been bothering me for the past few days. Is this normal or do I need to see a doctor?

No, it’s not normal. Bitter taste in the mouth can be caused by various medical conditions such as vitamin B12 deficiency, diabetes mellitus, kidney failure, liver disease and certain psychiatric disorders.

Vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency is the most common cause of a bitter taste in the mouth. It occurs when you don’t get enough vitamin B12 from your diet or if you have an illness that prevents your body from absorbing or using vitamin B12 effectively. Vitamin B12 helps keep red blood cells healthy and plays an important role in cell division and growth throughout your body.

Diabetes mellitus

High blood glucose levels can cause nerve damage that leads to a loss of taste sensation (called hypogeusia). This can make foods taste bland or bitter while they’re still sweet on your tongue. Early signs of diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst and hunger, fatigue (tiredness) and weight loss without trying — especially around the waistline.

Last modified: November 25, 2022