The following test can detect any inability to taste sweets.
Do not consume stimulants (coffee, tea, soda) or anything sweet for 1 hour before the test.
Label 7 identical glasses as having: 1/4 tsp. sugar; 1/2 tsp. sugar; 1 tsp. sugar; 1½ tsp. sugar; 2 tsp. sugar; 3 tsp. sugar; and no sugar, respectively.
Fill each glass with 8 ounces of water with the sugar and stir.
Have someone rearrange the glasses, hiding the labels in the process.
Take a straw and sip from each glass, marking which amount you think each one contains.
Between each test, rinse your mouth out with water.
Most people perceive a sweet taste with 1 tsp. or less sugar in the water.
Those with Type II diabetes will not perceive sweetness until they have tasted 1½ to 2 tsp. of sugar water.
This page was updated in December 2005.
