Diet PlanVoice BoostingFor Singing
Being pleasant-sounding is a gift from God that some people have, so everyone enjoys listening to their voice when they speak or sing. To strengthen the vocal cords and achieve a pleasing voice, there are special measures, including eating certain foods. In this section fromSelMagzwe introducefoods that are helpful and harmful for a good singing voice.How does food relate to having a pleasant voice?
Many of us wonder how food affects the voice. We should know that for food to reach the stomach through the esophagus, the vocal cords and airway passages are blocked, meaning the vocal cords are in direct contact with all foods and liquids. Whatever we eat impacts the vocal cords before it reaches the stomach.
Foods that are beneficial for a good voice
Next, we will introduce foods that help improve your singing voice:
Water
The voice is produced by small movements of internal muscles which need hydration to gain maximum energy, flexibility, and elasticity. Staying hydrated is very important, so drink plenty of room-temperature water. This keeps your vocal cords and throat in good condition.
If you can drink 6-8 cups of water daily, you keep your throat moist and your vital organs hydrated. Many singers drink lots of fluids on performance days to soothe their vocal cords.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupes contain 90% water. Therefore, try to eat pieces of
cantaloupeor other types ofmelonto stay hydrated. If you want the best diet for singers, eating cantaloupe is one of the top choices.Unsalted or toasted bread
Have you ever had dry bread stuck in your throat? Consuming unsalted or toasted bread can create extra moisture in the throat. This process can continue long after your meal, naturally hydrating your voice.
Apple juice
Half a cup of apple juice with water helps you stay hydrated during long speeches. If
apple juiceis not your favorite, you can opt for agreen appleor drink some fresh vegetable juice instead.Herbal tea
Warm herbal tea is excellent for the voice because these teas are naturally caffeine-free. They act like a sauna in the throat, keeping the vocal cords warm and comfortable. The antibacterial properties in tea leaves can improve and prevent throat problems.
HoneySwallowing a little honey gradually coats the throat, speeds up healing, and relieves discomfort. This sweet product has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria affecting the throat. A littlehoney
with water or tea should be your first and last drink in the mornings and evenings before performances.
Additionally, you can mix honey with lemon. Honey and lemon have antimicrobial properties that may eliminate germs in the throat and soothe the vocal cords to preventsore throatNatural sweets
Though dentists might not agree, research shows that sweet flavors help stimulate salivary glands because they keep the vocal cords moist. Many singers use this tip before performing to keep their vocal cords hydrated.Fresh fruitsFruits are rich in vitamins, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them highly nutritious and helping the body absorb these nutrients better. Fruit juices likely contain more water and sugar, so they may enter the bloodstream quickly, leading to faster fatigue.
Leafy vegetables
When it comes to a healthy diet for a good voice, don’t underestimate the effects of leafy greens. Eating leafy vegetables reduces throat inflammation and swelling, boosts the immune system, and keeps the voice clear.
Chicken
Protein is an essential nutrient for anyone who wants a good voice. This food provides lasting energy for the vocal cords. In fall and winter diets, include chicken and chicken broth to prevent laryngitis and maintain your vocal health and voice.
Soup
and chicken broth.
Fish
Fish is an excellent source of lean protein. Grill or bake fish with minimal oil, and enjoy it with some fresh vegetables.NutsA healthy diet for anyone wanting a good voice should include nuts, especially unsalted types. Be sure to rinse them with room temperature water to prevent throat dryness caused by salt.ButterAlmonds
and peanuts
are high-quality foods paired with
bananas
for a great breakfast or lunch. The protein in peanut butter keeps you full, while a little jam with some bread carbs boosts your energy.
OnionsUse onions for a lasting miracle in your throat. Wash a fresh, healthy onion thoroughly, peel it, then wrap it in foil and cook it over charcoal or in the oven. After it’s ready and the heat has dissipated, enjoy it.And consume it once the heat has gone.
Vitamin intakeConsuming plenty of vegetables and fruits not only helps you stay fit but also boosts voice quality because these foods are full of vitamins that combat illness and detoxify the body.Vitamin AThis vitamin is found in many foods and supports healthy skin, soft tissues, and mucous membranes, which is vital for good throat health. People should eat at least two servings of vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables daily. Their diet should include carrots, pumpkin,potatoes,
apricots, and
lettuce.Vitamin CVegetables and fruits like oranges, broccoli, tomatoes,
kiwi
and grapefruit are high in vitamin C.
Vitamin E
This powerful antioxidant helps fight free radicals that cause aging and muscle breakdown. Food sources rich in vitamin E include avocados,spinachand mango.These foods support lung and brain health.Vitamin B12This vitamin not only boosts energy but also helps combat anxiety and enhances neural function.Licorice root
Licorice root may form a protective layer on the throat tissues, shielding mucous membranes from irritation. First, heat it, then chill slightly with one or two ice cubes before drinking.
Foods to AvoidTo maintain a strong voice and good singing ability, learn about and restrict certain foods from your diet. These include:CaffeineCaffeine’s diuretic properties can lead to dehydration.Coffee
is a beverage containing caffeine, oils, and acids that can irritate the vocal cords, causing tightness and excess mucus. You might experience some throat discomfort or burning sensations.
Acid reflux may also be worsened by caffeinated drinks, leading to symptoms like sore throat,chronic coughand other voice problems.In some cases, side effects disappear quickly. If you want to drink caffeine, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to replenish fluids lost due to caffeine’s diuretic effect.Soda
Carbonated beverages should be avoided because they cause acid reflux. The carbonation leads to excess air in the stomach, which negatively affects the voice.
Smoking and smoke exposureVocal cords are very sensitive and prone to damage. Cigarettes, hookah, and tobacco cause thickening of the vocal cords. Smoke and dust in the environment also negatively impact the vocal cords, leading to dryness and dehydration of the voice tissues.Pickles
Acidic foods damage the vocal cords. To keep a good voice, consume sour foods like dried plum, lemon juice, and similar items in moderation.
MilkDrinking milk can increase mucus production behind the throat and nose. To maintain a good voice, avoid drinking milk and reduce other dairy products, especially before vocal performance.Mouthwash
Some
mouthwashes
contain ingredients that dry out the throat and make the voice hoarse. To keep your voice good, avoid using unfamiliar or non-standard mouthwashes.
Processed sweetsAmong snacks, avoid sugary processed foods, commercial fruit juices, candies, and other processed foods. The sugar and additives in these products drain energy from your voice.Chocolate
To maintain a clear and good voice, avoid eating chocolate because it contains caffeine, which causes muscles around the vocal cords to tighten and dry out the area. It also aggravates acid reflux and often contains a lot of sugar.Ice creamIce cream can irritate the vocal cords due to high sugar and lactose levels. It also tends to cause sore throat, especially in winter.
Fried foods
Any food prepared with a lot of oil negatively affects the vocal cords. Overeating fried foods can also cause heartburn.
Spicy foodsSpicy foods can irritate the stomach and cause acid reflux, so they should be avoided.Spices
Spices can cause allergies and itching in the vocal cords. Therefore, consume them in moderation.
Ice-cold drinks
Cold beverages over too hot foods can negatively impact the voice. Such drinks may cause throat muscles to tighten, leading to stress and loss of flexibility.
Hot foods
Just as cold foods are harmful, overly hot foods and liquids can damage the vocal cords. It’s best to keep the temperature around room temperature (about 24°C) and never hotter than body temperature (37°C).
Black tea
Another beverage to avoid is black tea. Although made from water, it may dry out the throat, so opt for herbal tea instead.
MicrophoneSingingBreadToasted breadHoney
Using honey to improve voice quality
SpinachLeafy greensNuts
Foods suitable for singers
PillsVitamins for a good voiceVitamin E
Using vitamin E
CoffeeCaffeineLemon water
Acidic fruit drinks
CandiesProcessed sugary foodsFried chicken
Fried foods
Ice water
Cold drinks
Strengthening the voice
Helpful foods
Voice enhancementBenefits of cantaloupeBenefits of melon
Diet to boost your voice
Benefits of apple water
Benefits of apples
Benefits of caffeineBenefits of honeyGargling for sore throat
