I had exploratory abdominal surgery in 1999, and was allowed nothing by mouth for 5 full days afterward, being supported only by IV hydration. On the night of day 5, I was allowed ice chips. Believe it or not, they were so sweet! Sips of water following the ice, and that was also sweet. My husband tasted it and thought I was still suffering the effects of the anesthesia lol, but the sweetness remained until I was allowed a liquid diet. So I guess it correlates that your sense of taste becomes heightened when you abstain, or are deprived in any way. JMHO.