Cecil Daugherty is passionate about all things BBQ. His favorite pastime is lighting up his grill and preparing meals for those he holds dear. Cecil holds the conviction that reheated BBQ can rival, and even surpass, the taste of freshly grilled food.
Hey there! I totally understand how frustrating it can be to lose your sense of smell after recovering from COVID-19. But don't worry, I've got some tips to help you restore that wonderful sense and get back to enjoying the full flavors of your favorite meals!
1. Be patient, my friend: First things first, give yourself some time. It can take a while for your sense of smell to fully come back after battling COVID-19. So don't stress if it doesn't return immediately. Just keep your nose open (literally!) and give it some time to recover.
2. Smell training: Yes, you read that right! Smell training can actually help you regain your sense of smell faster. It's like hitting the gym for your nose. Here's how you do it: Grab some strong-smelling items like coffee, lemon, rosemary, or even essential oils. Take a sniff of each item for about 20 seconds, twice a day. This helps stimulate your olfactory nerves and can aid in the recovery process.
3. Steam it up: Steam inhalation can work wonders for your nose. Boil some water, pour it into a bowl, and add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint. Place a towel over your head and inhale the steam for a few minutes. Not only will this help clear your sinuses, but it can also help kickstart your sense of smell.
4. Spicy surprises: Spicy foods can really wake up your taste buds and help stimulate your sense of smell. So why not add a little kick to your meals? Sprinkle some cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce on your dishes. The heat will not only add flavor but also help you reconnect with your sense of smell.
5. Get cooking: Cooking aromatic dishes can be a great way to retrain your nose. Whip up some delicious meals with strong flavors and aromas. Think garlic, onions, herbs, and spices. The more you expose your nose to these fragrant ingredients, the better chance you have of restoring your sense of smell.
6. Stay hydrated: Believe it or not, staying hydrated can actually help with your sense of smell. Make sure you're drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your nasal passages moist. Dry nasal passages can hinder your ability to smell, so keep that water bottle handy!
Remember, everyone's journey to regaining their sense of smell after COVID-19 is different. But with a little patience, some smell training, and a dash of spice, you'll be savoring the aromas of your favorite dishes in no time. Hang in there, my friend, and happy smelling!