Foods Good for the Vocal Cords

When considering what to eat and drink to help your vocal cords, it is a safe bet you will see a longer list of foods that you should actually avoid. Still there are certain foods that will keep your throat and vocal cords healthy. As far as liquids go, water is considered very good for your throat and vocal cords while milk is counter productive.

Whole Grains

• Whole grain foods contain vitamins A, C and E and these particular nutrients help your vocal cords. The nutrients help repair any slight damage to the vocal cords as well as strengthen them against damage. Vitamin A helps cells regenerate while vitamin C helps improve immune functions of the body making it easier to fight off infections like a sore throat. Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that protects cell membranes and boosts the body's immune system.

Chicken, Fish and Almonds

• Chicken, fish and almonds all serve as high protein foods that will fuel your body and keep your vocal cords working well. These foods are good for the vocal cords as long as they are not served with heavy spices. Spicy foods will increase acid in the stomach and that acid can rise up through the esophagus and damage the vocal cords.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Fruits, such as apples, are good for vocal cords because they are high in protein as well as vitamins A and C. Yellow vegetables are also good for the vocal cords. Green vegetables should be avoided when preparing for a speech or a performance as they may cause you to bloat and become gassy.

Honey

• Honey is good for the throat because the substance contains natural antibiotic properties that will keep vocal cords healthier. Some people believe tea with honey is good for vocal cords but for maximum efficiency, avoid tea as the caffeine contained in tea leaves will cause the vocal cords to constrict.