How Smell and Taste Affect Nutrition in ALS Patients

This trial is investigating how smell and taste sensation may affect eating and nutrition in people with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). ALS is a disease that causes muscle weakness and can make swallowing and eating difficult. The researchers want to understand whether problems with smell and taste contribute to poor nutrition in ALS patients, and whether improving these senses might help people eat better.

People with ALS often become malnourished because of difficulty swallowing, weakness in their arms, and breathing problems—but researchers believe that loss of smell and taste may also play an important role. Understanding this connection could lead to new ways to help ALS patients maintain better nutrition and quality of life.