When we think of dementia, most of us picture memory lapses, confusion, or trouble finding the right words. But what if the first sign of this life-altering condition wasn’t forgetfulness at all, but a sudden, dramatic change in what you eat?
According to leading dementia experts, a shift in dietary habits—like a lifelong vegetarian suddenly craving steak, or a fish-and-chips lover turning their nose up at their favourite meal—could be one of the earliest and most easily missed symptoms of early-onset dementia.
Dr Kellyn Lee, a dementia specialist from the University of Southampton, recently took to social media to highlight this surprising symptom.
In a video that’s already been viewed tens of thousands of times, Dr Lee explained that our food preferences are deeply ingrained, often shaped by decades of habit, culture, and even religious beliefs. So when someone’s tastes change overnight, it’s not just a culinary quirk—it could be a red flag.
‘For example, somebody who has always loved fish and chips now does not like them,’ Dr Lee says. ‘Somebody who has always enjoyed a roast beef lunch, absolutely no way will they eat it. The texture of food can feel different, so people might think, ‘Something that used to be okay in my mouth is no longer okay.’
It’s not just about what people stop eating, either. Some may suddenly crave foods they’ve avoided for years, or develop a sweet tooth out of nowhere.
Imagine a strict vegetarian tucking into a meat pie, or someone who’s always shunned dessert now polishing off a whole pavlova. For families, these changes can be both baffling and distressing.
While most of us associate dementia with memory loss, not all types of dementia play by the same rules. The Alzheimer’s Society points out that sudden changes in diet are particularly common in frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare form of the disease that tends to strike people under 65.
Unlike Alzheimer’s, which primarily affects memory, FTD targets the parts of the brain responsible for behaviour and personality.
In fact, studies show that food-related behaviours—like increased appetite, binge eating, or even a loss of table manners—are far more common in FTD than in other forms of dementia.
Some people may start eating much more than usual, while others might forget they’ve already eaten and ask for another meal just half an hour after lunch.
If you think this all sounds a bit far-fetched, consider the real-life experiences shared by families and carers. One woman wrote, ‘My mum was a vegetarian for 35 years. Now, with FTD, and recently having to move to full-time care, she eats everything and plenty of it.’
Another carer recalled, ‘A resident came in, family said she is a strict vegetarian, resident didn’t like vegetarian meals but started to choose meat meals. Family was not happy.’
Others have noticed changes in how food feels, not just how it tastes. ‘My husband says food causes his tongue to tingle or burn. Very difficult to find things he will eat now,’ one person shared.
The brain is a complex organ, and dementia can affect different regions in different ways. In FTD, the frontal and temporal lobes—responsible for controlling behaviour, decision-making, and even our sense of taste and smell—are the first to be affected. This can lead to a loss of inhibition, changes in personality, and, yes, a sudden shift in food preferences.
For some, the texture of food becomes unpleasant, or they may lose the ability to recognise when they’re full. Others might forget they’ve already eaten, leading to repeated requests for meals and snacks.
For families, these changes can be one of the most challenging aspects of caring for someone with dementia. It’s not just about adjusting the weekly shopping list—it can feel like losing a part of the person you’ve always known.
Dr Lee recommends using gentle distraction techniques if a loved one repeatedly asks for food. ‘You may have just had lunch and then give it half an hour and you might be sat in the lounge and the person says, ‘Ok, so are we having lunch now?’ she explains.
Rather than arguing or insisting they’ve already eaten, try reassuring them that lunch is coming soon, and then gently redirect their attention with music or another activity.
Dementia is a growing challenge worldwide, with nearly a million people affected in the UK and over seven million in the US. Here in Australia, it’s estimated that almost half a million people are living with dementia, and that number is expected to double in the next 25 years as our population ages.
While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, FTD and other forms of dementia are increasingly being recognised, especially in younger people. The cost—both emotional and financial—is staggering, with families often bearing the brunt of care.
As awareness of early-onset dementia continues to grow, insights like these can help families and caregivers better understand the subtle signs that often go unnoticed.
Have you or someone you know experienced unexpected changes in food preferences or behaviours that raised concerns? How do you think awareness of lesser-known symptoms like these could impact early diagnosis and care? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Also read: She defies Alzheimer’s while her village suffers—what protects her brain?
Isn’t there enough ageism already, without everyone having their antennas out for any little behavioral quirk that might possibly signify dementia? Omigod!