We all know that our body requires fuel to function, and food is fuel! But which foods and beverages can harm your vocal cords, and which ones can help you sing better? Keep on reading!
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Thursday, December 9th
Here are some quick tips on food and drinks you should and should not eat before singing.
What to Eat & Drink
Eating these foods a few hours before your show will help you relax and give your best. Also, a good and balanced meal with carbs can aid you boost your energy levels.
However, there are many other things you could eat that can help you sign better, including:
Water — Staying hydrated is vital for singers to keep their voices lubricated. Even though it might be sometimes tempting to drink ice-cold water (especially during the summer time) it is not adviced. Cold water constricts your vocal cords! So, opt for water that’s at room temperature instead.
Decaf teas with licorice root — It’s proven that it helps improve your voice and gives you more flexibility. Plus, licorice root usually forms a protective layer over your throat’s tissues, preventing irritation in your mucus membranes.
Honey — Adding a small teaspoon of honey to your tea or water will soothe your throat in an instant due to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
Peanut Butter — Pair it up peanut butter and jelly, and you’ll have the energy and protein to survive a long night of singing! Why? Simple. The protein keeps you full, and carbs on the bread give you the energy to keep performing.
Nuts — Every singer’s go-to snack due to its energy boosting benefits! In addition, they’re a considered super foods.
Vitamin A — Foods rich in Vitamin A help your mucus membrane remain healthy.
Fish and Chicken — They save your vocal cords from being overwhelmed with oils and fats. Consuming moderate oils and fats helps fight vocal strain and keeps the dry throat at bay.
Fresh fruits — Opt for whole fruits rather than juices as they contain more nutritional value. As a result, your voice will stay lubricated, and your body will stay hydrated.
What NOT to Eat & Drink
If you are planning on performing or recording, tru to avoid these foods at least four hours before your session:
Alcohol/Soda — While it feels good to calm you down, especially when dealing with stage fright, consuming alcohol dries out your throat. And drinking soda makes you gassy. Thus, try to stay aywa from these beverages before a show.
Dairy products — Consuming butter, cheese, yogurt, or milk before your performance isn’t a great idea. Acid reflux caused by it might burn your esophagus and, worse, your vocal cords.
Caffeine — Drinking caffeine degydrates you and makes you want to urinate more often. Plus, I can make you more jupy and contribute to your nerves!
This article is a re-post, with minor modifications, of “Things Vocalists Should and Shouldn’t Eat (Before Performing)” an article published on makingmusicmag.com
