Having a nice, smooth voice can be an asset in many situations. Whether you are a singer, public speaker, teacher, or simply want to sound your best in everyday interactions, the quality of your voice matters. While there are many factors that affect vocal quality, such as hydration, vocal rest, and technique, some research suggests that certain drinks may also help improve the sound of your voice. In this article, we’ll explore some of the drinks that are believed to benefit vocal health and make your voice sound its best.
Stay Hydrated with Water
One of the most important things you can do for a nice sounding voice is to stay hydrated. Your vocal cords need adequate hydration to function properly and produce a smooth, clear tone. Water is the best way to hydrate. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. Drink extra water before using your voice heavily, such as prior to singing or public speaking. Dehydration causes the vocal cords to become dry, stiff, and inflamed, leading to hoarseness and vocal strain. Drinking plenty of water keeps the vocal cords lubricated and helps you speak with ease.
Sip Warm Beverages
Warm, non-caffeinated drinks are soothing for the voice. The steam and warmth help relax tension in the vocal cords, thin mucus secretions, and improve blood circulation to the throat. Good options include:
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, or ginger, are recommended by vocal coaches because they are naturally anti-inflammatory. The warmth is calming for the vocal cords. Avoid adding milk or cream, as dairy can increase mucus production. A touch of honey can help coat and soothe the throat.
Decaffeinated Coffee or Tea
The warmth of decaf coffee or tea can provide vocal relief, without the dehydrating effects of caffeine. Be sure to avoid adding copious amounts of cream or sweeteners, as these can provoke increased throat mucus.
Warm Apple Cider
Warm apple cider is an old remedy used by singers to improve vocal quality. Freshly made cider contains enzymes that are thought to act as an anti-inflammatory for the vocal cords. The warmth is also relaxing. Limit added sugars, as excess sweetness could cause throat clearing.
Chicken Broth or Bone Broth
Warm, salty chicken broth provides hydration and may help thin vocal cord mucus secretions. Bone broth contains gelatin, minerals, and amino acids that can coat and soothe the throat. Sip plain broth, or add a squeeze of lemon for vitamin C.
Consider Honey and Lemon
A classic vocal remedy is mixing honey and lemon in warm water. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey and vitamin C in lemon can help reduce vocal inflammation and irritation. Lemon also helps thin mucus, while honey coats and soothes the throat. Use 1 tablespoon honey, juice of 1/2 lemon, and 8 ounces warm water. Slowly sip this mixture, allowing it to coat the throat.
Try Ginger and Mint Tea
Ginger and mint make an excellent tea for the voice. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, which may calm vocal inflammation. Mint cools and soothes the throat. To make ginger mint tea:
- Bring 2 cups water to a boil
- Add 1 inch grated fresh ginger and 5-10 mint leaves (fresh or dried)
- Let steep 5 minutes
- Strain tea into mug
- Add honey if desired
Drink ginger mint tea 30-60 minutes before using your voice. The anti-inflammatory effects take time to kick in. Be careful not to burn your mouth when drinking.
Consider Alcohol in Moderation
While excess alcohol is dehydrating and damaging to the voice, studies show that moderate intake of certain types of alcohol may temporarily improve vocal quality. Red wine, in particular, contains compounds that may benefit the voice. However, moderation is key, as more than 1-2 glasses can cause dehydration. Alcohol dries out the vocal cords, so be sure to drink extra water as well. Additionally, alcohol lowers inhibitions, which could lead to vocal misuse or overuse when under the influence.
Red Wine
Red wine contains resveratrol, an antioxidant that may protect vocal fold tissue from oxidative damage. One study found singers’ vocal quality improved after drinking a small amount of red wine. If you choose to drink red wine, limit intake to 4-6 ounces per day.
Whiskey or Bourbon
Some singers report improved vocal smoothness and reduced vocal fatigue after sipping a small whiskey or bourbon. Like red wine, whiskey contains antioxidants that may benefit the voice. However, these claims are anecdotal. Always drink in extreme moderation.
Avoid Drinks that Irritate the Voice
Just as some drinks may improve vocal quality, others can irritate the throat or voice. Beverages to limit or avoid include:
Caffeine
Caffeinated drinks like coffee, energy drinks, and soda can dehydrate the vocal cords and restrict blood vessels in the throat. Limit caffeine before singing or public speaking.
Dairy Milk
While not problematic for everyone, dairy milk creates excess mucus production in some people. Extra throat mucus can impair vocal quality. Limit milk and switch to non-dairy alternatives when using your voice heavily.
Fruit Juice
Despite vitamin C content, the high acidity of fruit juices can irritate the vocal cords in some individuals. Stick to low-acid options like coconut water or aloe vera juice.
Carbonated Drinks
The bubbles in soda, seltzer, and other carbonated drinks create gas that can cause belching or reflux, irritating the vocal cords. Let carbonation settle before drinking.
Pure Lemon or Lime Juice
Pure citrus juices are very acidic and can sting the throat and vocal cords. Dilute lemon or lime juice well with water, or opt for less acidic options.
Best Drinks for Singers
Singers use their voices extensively, so staying hydrated with the right beverages is especially important. Here is a table summarizing some of the best and worst drinks for singers:
| Best Drinks for Singers | Worst Drinks for Singers |
|---|---|
| Room temperature water | Carbonated soft drinks |
| Warm herbal tea | Caffeinated coffee or energy drinks |
| Fresh vegetable juice | Pure fruit juice |
| Decaffeinated tea | Alcohol |
| Coconut water | Dairy milk |
| Bone broth | Spicy foods |
| Ginger tea | Citrus juice |
Water should be a singer’s go-to beverage to stay hydrated. Warm, decaffeinated drinks and broths also soothe and relax the vocal cords. Avoid irritants like caffeine, carbonation, spicy food, and excess dairy when singing. While an occasional small amount of red wine or whiskey may temporarily improve the voice, alcohol should be consumed sparingly.
Conclusion
What you drink impacts vocal quality, for better or worse. Water is essential for hydrating the vocal cords to speak and sing smoothly. Warm, non-caffeinated beverages like herbal tea, broth, and apple cider relax the vocal cords and thin mucus secretions. Honey and lemon provides antibacterial, anti-inflammatory relief, while spicy ginger and mint may reduce inflammation. Research shows moderate intake of red wine or whiskey could temporarily improve vocal smoothness and reduce fatigue. However, alcohol should be consumed sparingly given its dehydrating effects. On the other hand, dairy, caffeine, citrus juices, and carbonated drinks may irritate the throat and impair vocal cord function for some people. Pay attention to how different beverages impact your voice. Stay well hydrated with water and consider sipping some of the drinks that may benefit vocal health. With the right beverage choices, you can keep your voice sounding its best.