A new study from the University of Queensland suggests that being a “super-taster”—someone genetically predisposed to strongly perceive bitter tastes – may come with unexpected health consequences. While the aversion to bitter foods like broccoli or grapefruit is familiar to some, researchers have found that a specific genetic profile associated with this heightened bitter sensitivity is linked to chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as a higher incidence of bipolar disorder.*

The Genetic Link

At the center of the study is the TAS2R38 gene, which encodes one of the bitter taste receptors. Everyone inherits two copies of this gene, one from each parent, but only about 20–25% of people have copies that are both fully functional. These individuals are known as super-tasters, and researchers have discovered three specific genetic variations within these functional pairs that correlate with an increased risk of certain health conditions.

Most notably, the study highlighted a strong association between “bitter-sensitivity” and markers of kidney dysfunction. This included:

• Higher serum creatinine levels, 
• Reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and 
• Increased indicators of renal toxicity. 

These findings suggest that the same genetic traits that help humans avoid potentially toxic bitter compounds may inadvertently contribute to CKD.

Diet, Taste, and Kidney Stress

The research also sheds light on how this bitter-taste sensitivity influences diet in ways that could stress the kidneys. Super-tasters tend to avoid certain bitter foods and alcohols, but paradoxically consume more salt. They don’t directly add it, but their heightened salt sensitivity leads them to prefer moderately salty foods. Over time, this often results in kidney strain.

The TAS2R38 genotype, moreover, appears to influence the gut microbiome. Carriers of the gene had more Parabacteroides, a bacterium associated with lower inflammation and better gut health. While this finding is encouraging, it does not necessarily offset the elevated renal risks.

Toward Personalized Nutrition

Though the study does not prove causation, it opens up important avenues for further research. Understanding how taste perception genes influence broader health outcomes could help in tailoring more personalized dietary recommendations, particularly for people at risk for or living with CKD and other chronic conditions.

*Thompson, B. (2025, June 15). Bitter food sensitivity is linked to kidney disease and bipolar disorder. New Atlas. https://newatlas.com/diet-nutrition/bitter-gene-kidney-bipolar/ 

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