Voice -what foods are good for the throat?

16 Apr 04 - 10:00 PM (#1163651)
Subject: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: steve in ottawa

Freda has mentioned vitamin c and rutin as being very good for "healing wounds, bruises, scratches, scrapes and...for preventing the formation of haemorrhoids."

I've heard lots about what's good for preparing your throat for singing, but little about what foods are good for keeping your throat healthy or healing your throat.

Any ideas?

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16 Apr 04 - 10:25 PM (#1163656)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Deckman

VODKA!

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17 Apr 04 - 02:31 AM (#1163740)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Rasener

Try Water dear Stevie dear Stevie dear Stevie :-)

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17 Apr 04 - 02:34 AM (#1163743)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Dave Hanson

Yes water, particularly the water of life.
eric

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17 Apr 04 - 03:16 AM (#1163753)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: George Papavgeris

Honey is a great soother/healer, but not as it is. Use it instead of sugar (two teaspoonfuls) in hot drinks.

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17 Apr 04 - 01:26 PM (#1163840)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Celtaddict

As disparate an assortment as singers of the New York Metropolitan Opera and O'Flaherty's pub in New Orleans swear by slippery elm tea, available commercially in U.S. as "Throat Coat" teabags, somewhat licorice-like taste, goes well with honey and very soothing if you are "scratchy." Singers east of the Pond seem to go for the blackcurrant tea, and Lemsip.
Alcohol is not bad as a pain soother, but is dehydrating; exactly what you do not want to do to healing vocal cords. Caffeine also best avoided.
Celtaddict (MD, in Mommy Moment)

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17 Apr 04 - 01:41 PM (#1163849)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Marje

Ginger is great for a sore or wheezy throat. You can use something like Twinings Lemon and Ginger teabags ( that's available in the UK at least) or make ginger tea - steep some grated fresh ginger in hot water, strain it and flavour with lemon and honey. It's also a good rescue remedy if you're at all asthmatic.

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17 Apr 04 - 03:38 PM (#1163913)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Mark Ross

Opera singers use hot water, lemon, honey, and cayenne I hear. I have used it on a couple of ocassions of dire necessity. It does work.

Mark Ross

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17 Apr 04 - 04:28 PM (#1163938)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: breezy

Martin C does not partake of cheese as it is detrimental for the voice

Not a lot of people know that!!

Spotlight tonight

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17 Apr 04 - 05:12 PM (#1163968)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Q (Frank Staplin)

Cheese- is that why Pavarotti has a lousy voice? Somewhere I have a recipe for a cheese sauce he made.

When I was a kid I screamed for ice cream to soothe my throat. I still do. May not be therapeutic, but it feels good going down.

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17 Apr 04 - 07:41 PM (#1164043)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: dianavan

Oil of orange. Don't drink it. Saturate a Q-tip and carefully apply to the sore spots. It helps if you have someone do it for you.

Gargle with salt water.

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17 Apr 04 - 07:42 PM (#1164045)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: vectis

Rum and Shrub or Sloe Gin

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17 Apr 04 - 08:27 PM (#1164069)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Fooles Troupe

Apple Cider Vinegar - the real brewed stuff, not the apple juice and vinegar synthetic muck.

One teaspoonfull (also one of honey helps too) in a glass (about 200 ml) of warm/tepid water. Ginger helps too. Sip slowly.

Bonnigton's Irish Moss. (contains carigeenan - the 'active' ingredient) carigeenan is an extract of seaweed. Available in liquid form (now without alcohol for the kiddies - easily fixed - add 5% vodka!) and lozenge form.

Robin

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17 Apr 04 - 08:37 PM (#1164077)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Alba

Mark how much Cayenne pepper do you put in, in fact could you post the amounts you use for everything in the recipe. I'd appreciate it.

I have tried most of the others except the Vodka..lol but I use Apple Cider Vinegar, Honey and a crushed clove of Garlic, mixed in a little bottle, leave in Fridge overnight, then sipped in small amounts before performing or if you have a cold and sore throat..sipp throughout the day. Be warned though...don't sing up close to anyone..:>)
Jude

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17 Apr 04 - 09:04 PM (#1164089)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Jim McCallan

I have heard that burnt toast is very good for keeping the throat in good order. Also gargling with tea tree oil is a well known remedy.

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18 Apr 04 - 08:26 AM (#1164305)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Fooles Troupe

I forgot about garlic. You can get "odourless" garlic cloves - they are pickled in a salty solution. There is still a very mild odour, though.

40 clove chicken - stuff the cavity of a chicken with as much garlic cloves as will fit in (traditionally 40 individual cloves, or several complete heads, peeled) - add other herbs lightly to taste. When cooked, the inside is spooned out, crushed, and made into a sauce. The cooking proceedure changes the garlic, and it is mild and not overpowering, there being a wonderful flavour imparted to the meat.

SMALL quantities of alcohol (in dilution) anaethesitise the throat. I know of one local performer who needs her "throat medicine" when performing - Bundaberg Rum!

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18 Apr 04 - 09:20 AM (#1164339)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Mary Humphreys

I got a recipe from Sue Coe that sounds like the vegetarian alternative to the 40 clove chicken. You get a paper bag ( or greaseproof paper, constructed into a bag ) and put in scrubbed new potatoes with as many garlic cloves ( unpeeled)as you like. Drizzle olive oil on them and put in the oven at about 200C and leave until baked. The potatoes are great, the garlic can be pressed out of the skin and eaten as it is. Very soothing. Leftovers can be eaten cold if you like-though there is rarely any left over in my experience.
It works wonders for the voice, but doesn't do much for close encounters!
When performing I like a bottle of water handy, with a pint of beer nearby. Best not to drink all the beer in the first half of a gig, or the fingers forget which keys are which on the concertina!

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18 Apr 04 - 09:27 AM (#1164344)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: JennyO

Little sips of Benedictine or Drambuie are rather nice (hic!)

Seriously though, a few years ago a naturopath gave me a recipe for what she called her "virus buster". It was hot water with lemon, ginger and a small amount of chilli. It works wonderfully well - has stopped quite a few colds in their tracks - and as long as you don't overdo the chilli, is also soothing on a sore throat. I have sometimes used lemsip instead of lemon juice and that is very good.

I have also taken some stuff called "Astraforte" which contains astragalus, in hot water, and have found it very soothing.

In fact, I find that the heat in these drinks is an important factor. A cold drink seems to make it worse, and you should definitely stay away from anything milky when you have a sore throat or cough.

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18 Apr 04 - 09:34 AM (#1164350)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: freda underhill

Bernard bolan's cordial mix that they sell at festivals (didnt see it this year at the national, jenny) has a simialr cordial with lemon, ginger, chilli, garlic and st john's wort in it - its delicious when added to boiling water, and is very good for the throat.

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18 Apr 04 - 10:12 AM (#1164368)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Sandra in Sydney

"Cordially Yours" is the name of Lyndan's business & Bernard is just one of the folks who has helped her at Festivals. She hasn't been to the National for a few years, I think cos of the enormous price rise for stalls & it was also a very intensive job - they were open over 12 hours every day.

Google search -

Cordially Yours, for non-alcoholic mixer drinks. Most of the flavours have been adapted from traditional Australian recipes by Murray ...
    http://www.cordiallyyours.com.au/about.html

I tried to make a blue clicky but it went feral (maybe it didn't like the idea of non-alcoholic drinks!!)

sandra

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18 Apr 04 - 10:51 AM (#1164392)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: JennyO

here ya go Sandra

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19 Apr 04 - 06:04 AM (#1165026)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: v

burnt toast. a time-honored way to reduce burnt out jitters,
It's worth understanding when you know your son or daughter ' s out here on the front lines.. so sad to leave a child without a father...
I expect veggies and sprouts are best for the throat. I could care less what her father needs, at this moment.
trying an trying,
v

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19 Apr 04 - 09:34 AM (#1165163)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Roger the Skiffler

People who've heard mine recommend fishbones!

RtS

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19 Apr 04 - 11:25 AM (#1165253)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Splott Man

Martin C has the right idea. Dairy products in general tend to make you produce too much phlegm.

If you've got a cold/sore throat and HAVE to sing, I find Vocalzones (over the counter at the chemists) a great aid in getting through it. Although resting your voice is even better.

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19 Apr 04 - 12:00 PM (#1165298)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,pattyCLink

Apples are good for getting the throat ready to sing, good moisture, pH and texture for clearing away crud.

But be ware of apple's natural partner, cinnamon, it is an irritant to the throat.

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29 Apr 04 - 12:03 AM (#1173752)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: steve in ottawa

Thanks folks. This is the first non-lyrics thread I've ever printed out for reference. :-)

If anyone still has ideas, what I'm most interested in are aids to healing over the long term, say 3-6 months.

I've always drunks lots of water; perhaps too much (apparently if you fill your stomach completely, it increases acid reflux...although it's much milder reflux...and that's my main? problem -- reflux away up in the voicebox...although my ENT guy seemed almost as concerned about my reported tendancy to breath through my mouth). I finally bought vitamin c with rutin (and rosehips...no clue what rosehips are for). I'll get the slippery elm tea on Saturday. I'm taking much better care to eat lots of veggies, but if anyone has specific veggie suggestions, I'm interested to hear 'em (and is garlic powder almost as good as garlic cloves?) For those who fear milk, I'll say: a little skim milk gives you a little extra phlegm, which is great if you're a little short on phlegm.

I confess I never would have thought of: "hot water, lemon, honey, and cayenne." Zowie.

I've been off coffee for 40 days now. No alcohol. Only 4 cups of black tea. No chocolate or caffeine sodas. Mild headaches in first few days. Generally more energy, but when I'm tired, I'm MORE tired. Interesting. Also interesting how important coffee is socially.

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29 Apr 04 - 12:18 AM (#1173762)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Stilly River Sage

Hmmm. There is useful stuff to print out here. I'll have to pick up a fresh lemon tomorrow. Is that fresh ginger, grated? Can you give some quantities on these items? How much chili powder?

I have a doozie of a head cold right now. Sneezing, blowing my nose, ears plugged, eyes and throat burning. Soon to move into the cough phase, I am sure. Ugg. Sleeping upright in the recliner comes soon, when propping pillows in bed isn't enough. I got this cold from an old guy sitting coughing his lungs out at a meeting last week.

SRS

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29 Apr 04 - 02:21 AM (#1173801)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Fooles Troupe

Rose hips are a natural source of Vitamin C & other ribflavinoids which assist metabolism of Vitamin C. Rutin is a similar bio-assistant.

Fresh ingredients are usually better than dried, preserved, processed, etc.

Garlic is also available in 'pearls' - little beads.

But I like Preserved Ginger. You can also get Pickled Ginger (love this too!), from any place that will supply Japanese Sushi style stuff - it is traditionally eaten with Sushi to aid digestion. You can sugar style or 'diabetic; style - but I can't stand the taste of the chemical, it remains in my throat for hours.

Robin

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04 Jan 06 - 01:04 AM (#1640914)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Annie

herbal tea usually helps, just dont pour on the sugar. the ones that taste the worst help the most lol

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04 Jan 06 - 01:55 AM (#1640922)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,pavane

Mrs Pavane always has a flask with hot water, honey and lemon to hand. No cayenne in it though.

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04 Jan 06 - 02:02 AM (#1640925)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: wilbyhillbilly

Hot sperm gargle, cures anything.

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04 Jan 06 - 05:28 AM (#1640983)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Lancashire Lad

Robert Plant used to swear by honey and ginger tea. Given the pounding his vocal chords have taken in the last 40 years, there must be something in it.

LL

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04 Jan 06 - 11:33 AM (#1641134)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: jillfiddle

Honey in anything - my teacher used to recomend a teaspoonful, shaken up in about 1/2 litre fresh o.j.

Horseradish - great for cutting through phlegm (yuk)

and ... very, very good quality chocolate (the 70-80% proof stuff)

xx

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04 Jan 06 - 07:52 PM (#1641446)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Kaleea

Horseradish? Scary Monster!

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04 Jan 06 - 11:04 PM (#1641662)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Genie

Quote (Steve in Ottawa): "Freda has mentioned vitamin c and rutin as being very good for "healing wounds, bruises, scratches, scrapes and...for preventing the formation of haemorrhoids.""


Um, if your singing technique is giving you hemorrhoids (especially, in your throat), I think you're doing it all wrong. ;-)

Genie

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05 Jan 06 - 11:34 AM (#1642029)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Tannywheeler

Wow, Genie!! Talk about hitting nails on heads...
Vitamin C is like garlic, I understand, in that it has a basic beneficial effect on various organs/functions of our bodies. Anything done to improve basic general health will help the voice (the vocal chords and throat lining being physical tissues in our bodies). Hot lemon and honey are relaxing and helpful. Periods of quiet aid recuperation from overuse or illness. Maintaining some form of regular practice(vocal workouts) keeps the voice limber, strong, enduring. I hear that nuts(because of oils) are NOT good before performing. One young woman I knew always had 1 or 2 jiggers of Southern Comfort before a gig and might even have the last of the little glass on stage with her during. She said it cleared the crud out of her throat. She also got a bit more relaxed. (She would get quite tense/antsy/wound up before a performance.) She was a friend for 15+ years. Didn't see her drink much otherwise--occasionally wine with meals. Miss her. She's moved to other places.       Tw

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05 Jan 06 - 04:36 PM (#1642279)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Art Thieme

I've heard that some specialty niche/genera movie stars use K-Y Jelly. Less greasy than the gelatinous petrolium products. It's not a food, or for the voice though. (Just for extra throatal lubrication when dry mouth, or whatever, is the problem ;-)

Art

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06 Jan 06 - 12:59 AM (#1642662)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: LadyJean

When I was in high school, I came down with a sore throat the week before I was supposed to read a poem for the Thanksgiving program. I drank a tea that was made of equal parts peppermint and eucalyptus. It tastes HORRIBLE! But it kept the sore throat at bay until after the program. It tastes so bad the germs leave on their own. I eat a clove of raw garlic for sinus trouble. It isn't a happy experience, but it works. Licorice is also helpful.

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06 Jan 06 - 07:33 PM (#1643060)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: yrlancslad

If you have a scratchy throat and cough use whisky, hot water, sugar (or honey) and lemon or whisky hot water and Lemsip(I import mine from the UK).
If you just want something to keep your throat in good order while singing use a good British hard cider, still if possible, I always found Triple Vintage worked well but here in the States have to make do with Blackthorn. Don't use the American stuff though! A shot of rum in the cider helps too!

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20 Sep 06 - 11:09 AM (#1839180)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST

PINEAPPLE!!!!!!!

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20 Sep 06 - 05:22 PM (#1839492)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Anne Lister

Someone asked what the point of the rosehips were - they're packed full of Vitamin C.
I'm just emerging from 18 months or so with a croaky voice, which seems to have been caused by my asthma inhaler. Another asthma treatment (Singulair) seems to be clearing it up. But in the meanwhile was referred for voice therapy (and have had four out of six sessions) which have just made me incredibly self conscious about whether or not I'm relaxed, rather than helping with the croaky voice. No worse way to get someone to relax than to keep asking if they're relaxed, in my experience!
As to foods ... water, water, water, water, water. And water.

Anne

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20 Sep 06 - 07:30 PM (#1839584)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Seamus Kennedy

Sucking candied ginger always works for me.
Breaks up the phlegm from the vocal cords.
Don't do it just before going on stage though, or you'll be hawking loogies for the whole first set.

Seamus

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20 Sep 06 - 08:02 PM (#1839616)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Don Firth

Yeah, ginger is good. I find that a couple of ginger Altoids will get me barking like a seal and clearing my throat a lot, then when I've cleared the sludge out, I'm in pretty good shape. But as Seamus says, plan ahead!

Don Firth

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21 Sep 06 - 08:42 AM (#1839907)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST

As someone has already said, apples are good.Gargles with propolis and maybe just a little bit(just a little) of glycerin oil can help a lot.Avoid chocolate in the days you´re singing, cause it seems not to be good for the voice.

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21 Sep 06 - 02:07 PM (#1840193)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Seamus Kennedy

Don Firth, Ginger Altoids work for me too. Same effect.
Try the candied ginger sometime.

Seamus

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21 Sep 06 - 05:45 PM (#1840303)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Don Firth

Yeah, Seamus, I have. That's what put me onto the Altoids. My wife picked up a package of candied ginger some time ago, and I noticed that in addition to letting my taste buds know it was there, it had the effect of jarring things loose very nicely. The only problem I had was spending the next half-hour wearing my tongue out prying bits of candied ginger off my teeth. I spotted the ginger Altoids in a grocery store shortly thereafter and gave them a try. Same effect, fortunately. I think the candied ginger might actually be slightly more effective for the purpose, but the Altoids do work nicely, and they're a little more convenient to carry around.

Except that I keep pecking at them and tend to go through a tin at an alarming rate.

Don Firth

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21 Sep 06 - 09:37 PM (#1840442)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Richie

I eat chocolate or sometimes drink hot chocolate.

Works for me,

Richie

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21 Sep 06 - 09:50 PM (#1840453)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Dan Schatz

Popcorn. Don't ask me why - it just works. (Real popcorn, not the movie stuff!)

Dan Schatz

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22 Sep 06 - 05:10 PM (#1841087)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,JohnB

I don't know about fishbones but how about Tuna fish for pitch problems.
More seriously, I used to gargle with Southern Comfort prior to choir concerts, I also tried sherry.
Water is good, while singing, stay away from fruit juice and dairy products.
I also use lot's of Fisherman's Friends on a bad day.
Certain heart/blood pressure medications can also have serious throat drying side effects, almost ruined canadian tenor Ben Hepner's career.
JohnB

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22 Sep 06 - 09:41 PM (#1841237)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Girl Friday

We in Tone Deaf Leopard reccomend strong British cider and brandy, but don't expect to function properly the following morning.

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01 Oct 06 - 04:41 PM (#1847755)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,katie green

hot water, mixed with lemon and honey.
this isn't all that pleasent tasting, but helps.
i've also heard of covering a fresh onion with honey, baking it, and drinking the juice.
i haven't tried that one, but heard it from a nurse in my church choir.

hope it helps

*~Kt

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01 Oct 06 - 11:40 PM (#1847977)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,thurg

I've occasionally looked for something from my halcyon days as a boy-soprano, a product which I remember as "Meloids" - could this be the "Altoids" several have mentioned? These came in a small tin, they were unappealing little brown cruds, tasted heavily of clove, if I remember correctly, but they sure worked.

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05 Oct 06 - 06:28 PM (#1851470)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: SharonA

refresh

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05 Oct 06 - 08:12 PM (#1851544)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: PoppaGator

Cayenne, mentioned early in the discussion, is a hot red pepper and the main ingredient in the generic hot sauce found on restaurant and kitchen tables all over south Louisiana. Tabasco (brand) sauce, more commonly exported to the outsdide world, is very similar, but made with tabasco peppers, which are a different variety. I think that the cayenne pepper (used for the Crystal and Louisiana brand sauces and most store-brand and "generic" hot sauce products) is not quite as hot as Tabasco.

Anyway, cayenne and "chilli" and Tabasco are probably interchangeable, and horseradish probably serves pretty much the same function as any red pepper.

The way I read it, the consensus seems to endorse a hot toddy made with honey, lemon, and hot water, with an option to also incorporate a small dose of alcohol and/or a red-hot sinus-clearing item like red pepper or horseradish.

Also mentioned was slippery elm tea; let me add that slippery elm is also available in lozenge form ~ easily found in the US at any health-food outlet under the brand name Thayer's. The trick is to resist the temptation to chew 'em up ~ it's better to let them melt in your mouth and make them last.

From my own experience, I can recommend both the slippery elm and the hot toddy (with a wee dram of Irish whisky). I hadn't heard of spicing up the toddy with a shot of cayenne, but will probably try it next time I feel the need.

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06 Oct 06 - 04:29 PM (#1852243)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: shepherdlass

Or ... rum, sherry or Madeira, hic! Don't know if any of these really help, but they do promote a feeling of well being, sweetness and warmth! You certainly THINK you sound better after a few glasses of anything alcoholic, of course.

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08 Oct 06 - 07:25 PM (#1853604)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Girl Friday

Tom Lewis likes Vocalzones - only available in UK. Boots in Tenterden didn't have them - sent us to Payden's where we found Tom buying his. In Canada he has an American remedy- Singer's Saving Grace.

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17 Oct 06 - 04:56 PM (#1861553)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Maggie

I totally get what Don Firth is saying about Ginger, but I wouldn't recomend clearing your throat too too much as I did that and wound up with Nodules for over a year. (Talk about a road block)

Just before a performance, if you take a shot of olive oil it will make your voice smoother, silkier, and won't be as hard on your throat as singing cold turkey.

~Maggie

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17 Oct 06 - 05:07 PM (#1861564)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Rasener

Cucumbers have many uses :-)

However, I can imagine slices of cucmber would do the trick as they are lovely and moist.

Not sure how beneficial a whole cucumber swallowed in one go would be

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18 Oct 06 - 04:11 PM (#1862509)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,ibo

I do tours around the country,sometimes working 14 gigs in a row.I recently worked with a pro opera singer who told me that raisins,or dates,sultanas oil the throat.I tried it and had no problems with my voice during the tour.Do not use alcohol,it has damaging effects in the long run,doctors orders.

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11 Jun 07 - 03:08 PM (#2073915)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Aiedail Thompson

I was always told warm drinks work best. The ginger helps too, and so does the rasins (and trust me, if you're drinking ground ginger, honey, and lemon in hot water, you need something else that actually tastes good!). Again, stay away from dairy products, and soda doesn't help either. It may not affect you now, but the acid in soda tears at your vocal chords. Some crime scene investigators use soda to clean up messes, and if it can get rid of that, than it most certainly not good for your throat. Once in a while it's ok, though.

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11 Jun 07 - 03:09 PM (#2073916)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: guitar

can't spell ARE

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12 Jun 07 - 02:44 AM (#2074428)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Sooz

I'm surprised that no-one has already said this but no food or drink should be going through your larynx. That would be the first step towards choking or drowning!

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12 Jun 07 - 02:54 AM (#2074434)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Jim Lad

I'd stay away from frogs.

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12 Jun 07 - 05:44 PM (#2075180)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: lefthanded guitar

My grandmother's recipe for a sore throat is tea with honey and homemade jam preserves (made from raspberries picked on the mountainside of the Berkshire foothills).

Served with love.

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12 Jun 07 - 06:08 PM (#2075201)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: katlaughing

So how did Ben Hepner save his career from the side effects of medicines? I have noticed my voice being hoarse and weak for the past two years since heart surgery and starting on new meds. Even trying to read a child's book to my grandson has me stopping every other page or so to get my voice back. I'll try some of the suggestions noted, but wondered specifically about Hepner since the meds were mentioned.

Thanks,

kat

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12 Jun 07 - 07:45 PM (#2075296)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Jim Lad

Antiinflammatories Kat? They'll dry your throat.

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12 Jun 07 - 07:53 PM (#2075300)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Jim Lad

And before anybody jumps on me... Different Rx will effect people in various ways. I frequently use Antihistamines when performing nightly, in order to dry out my throat. It works for me, not for everyone.

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24 Sep 07 - 06:35 AM (#2156167)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST

my Grandmother told me coconut oil and mustard oil mix with honey , kept in a cold dark room for one month is good for a singer

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24 Sep 07 - 07:55 AM (#2156192)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Ruth Archer

Anyone come up with a way to deal with the hoarseness caused by inhaling steroids (for asthma)?

I've only recently been diagnosed, and while I feel a lot better now that I'm using the inhaler, I'm not really liking what the medicine is doing to my voice.

---

24 Sep 07 - 07:57 AM (#2156193)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Mr Red

A bloke at the Black Country Museum used to swear that any drink with milk in it was not good for peole who talk all day. Singing would be similar so I have always heeded the advice - only cider for me if I am singing.

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24 Sep 07 - 09:53 AM (#2156258)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Mary Humphreys

Ruth,
Go back to your GP. Say you are a singer and ask what s/he suggests as an antidote to the steroids. Your GP may not realise that you need your voice.
Mary

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24 Sep 07 - 10:02 AM (#2156265)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Sandman

Ruth, for athsma avoid all dairy products especially milk,do lots of deep breathing exercises,these will help your voice.
1Take a deep breath from your diaphragm.
2.
slowly breath out
3.repeat exercise.1
4breath out quickly[pah],cleansing breath
This is an exercise used by yoga experts, to improve their tone of the voice.
also try gargling with salt water.Dick Miles

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24 Sep 07 - 10:13 AM (#2156278)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

Sage tea is good for sore throats

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24 Sep 07 - 10:37 AM (#2156291)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Sandman

Ruth,here are some alternatives for athsma,
herbalism, Codnopsis Root.
GingkoLeaves help to reduce the dependency on prescription drugs.however do not stop or alter the dosage without consulting your Doctor.
Homeopathy,MagPhos is recommennded for athsma brought on by nervousness,useIPECAC to relieve symptoms brought on by anger.
Aromatherapy.the essential oil of Cajeput,Eucalyptus, Marjoram and Melissa are useful.Apricots strengthen the mucus membranes and may helpin preventing attacks
A drink made from vinegar and honey is an old remedy for athsma,it may help congestion of the lungs,Aniseed tea is also recommended.
SelfHelp,
Athsma is often brought on by stress,DEEP BREATHING helps to calm stress,make sure your house is free of dust, pollen and pet hairs.do not drink cows milk,pay attention to your diet.
In my opinion your doctor should not be giving you steroids for Athsma.Dick Miles

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24 Sep 07 - 10:59 AM (#2156301)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

Why not steroids for asthma Captain? I've chronic asthma and my doctor regularily puts me on steroids if I've got an infection or I've had an attack...

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24 Sep 07 - 11:21 AM (#2156314)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Sandman

Because it is treating the symptoms rather than the cause of the problem, Ruth is obviously getting side effects[hoarseness] from the steroids that are affecting her voice,if it is feasible to cure the athsma without getting side effects,it must be preferable,However that is only my opinion.Dick Miles.

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24 Sep 07 - 11:30 AM (#2156319)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

Nope, you're right. Unfortunately you can cure asthma, you have to live with it and treat the symptoms. With the correct medication the symptoms can almost completely disappear. I'm on a steroid inhaler, a preventer, a nebuliser (when I need it, I have one at home) and steroid tablets when I need them. But yes, they do affect your voice.

---

24 Sep 07 - 11:48 AM (#2156338)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Wilfried Schaum

Always the liquid ones - and I'm not talking of coffee or tea ;)

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24 Sep 07 - 11:52 AM (#2156342)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Alice

Water, NOT ALCOHOL.
If you are singing in a very dry atmosphere, some people say
a little milk helps them before a performance to keep their throat
from drying out. Others don't like the coating of milk in
their throat. Take your pick.

---

24 Sep 07 - 11:58 AM (#2156354)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

My last post should say "can't cure asthma"

Some people say not to eat any dairy products including chocolate before singing as it clogs up the vocal cords....it was advice given to me by my then choir master when I was taking my exams.

---

24 Sep 07 - 12:24 PM (#2156366)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Sandman

CATHERINE JAYNE ,Google up homeopathy and athsma my experience.
This contradicts what you are saying.Dick Miles

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24 Sep 07 - 12:27 PM (#2156369)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: peregrina

chicken soup (preferably the clear kind)

&

Icelandic moss (cetraria islandica) either as tea or better in throat lozenges (soprano fjallagrasahalstoflur--sorry can't put in accents)

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24 Sep 07 - 12:29 PM (#2156370)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

I'm not going down the homeopathy route for my asthma, I have an excellent consultant and my asthma is well controlled with the meds I am on. Perhaps I'm scared to change the way it's treated but when you've been in resus struggling to breathe you stick with what works!....but if it works for others thats great.

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24 Sep 07 - 12:44 PM (#2156384)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: The Sandman

CatherineJayne, According to the article, it does work for others.

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24 Sep 07 - 12:45 PM (#2156385)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Ruth Archer

Mary, I told them that I sing when they were diagnosing me, and they did say straight away that I might find that the inhaled steroids produce hoarseness. Which they do. They didn't suggest any alternative treatments, sadly.

Dick, I appreciate your advice on homeopathy, but having only just discovered what's wrong, and finding the great relief that using the inhaler has brought, I'm (I hope understandably) reluctant to abandon the prescribed treatment just yet.

---

24 Sep 07 - 12:50 PM (#2156388)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

Dick....I'm arguing that it doesn't work for others, everyone is different. I'm sticking with my prescribed meds.

Ruth.....I'm glad you are getting relief from your meds. Breathe easy and keep singing!

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24 Sep 07 - 12:51 PM (#2156389)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Catherine Jayne

Sorry...I really should read what I put before I press submit...last post should read "I'm NOT arguing" ...sorry about that!

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24 Sep 07 - 04:44 PM (#2156542)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Rumncoke

I don't believe in homeopathy - but that did not stop it curing the hay fever I was being miserable with - and it has not come back despite it being several years since I bought the single bottle of tablets.

It can't possibly work - but it did. I had tried all the usual over the counter remedies including one which made my hair fall out. They stopped the hay fever, but the side effects were awful. The homeopathic remedy had no side effects,and it should not have worked, but in three days I had a vast reduction in the symptoms and in a week it had gone for good. Well I did get itchy eyes for a few days the following year, but after that, nothing.

I can see that taking the prescribed medication is really reasuring, but it might not be the only answer, and you don't have to stop using the medication to treat the symptoms, but if something helps to stop the symptoms it might be worth trying.

You don't even have to believe it will work - from experience a hearty disbelief is most efficatious.

oh - when singing I drink pineapple juice well diluted with fizzy water, and just a small amount of ice.

Ginko Biloba should not be taken by women before the menopause, it can cause very heavy periods and anaemia.

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24 Sep 07 - 08:04 PM (#2156684)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,ibo

drink warm drinks before and after performance,and natural lubrication from raisins,sultanas,dates works for me

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25 Sep 07 - 06:28 AM (#2156918)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Fidjit

Don't really know, but thay say that pineapple is best for sea sickness.
It's the only thing that tastes the same on the way up as it did on the way down.

Chas

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24 Dec 07 - 11:40 AM (#2221935)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST

Janis Joplin and Van Morrison drank heavily, even on stage = demise.
Mentioned earlier, the gentlemen who started this thread is drinking black tea now.. it contains tannins that dry the throat.
Ginger lozenges are great, and I like to mix sugar free herbal lozenges in there. Beginners depending on lozenges may mask symptoms that require attention. Before a gig I have a little Jagermeister nearby to relax: contains licorice root, and I've heard heavy metal singers swear by it. No complaints. Also, 3 and a half hours before going on stage I eat lots of bread with butter, half a cucumber, and a whack of plain celery (sustanance, moisture, celery increases moisture absorbtion, the combination is easy to digest, no mucus or reflux) It's a little unusual, but I have a humidifier behind my amplifier on stage that emits hot vapor. Leaning into the vapor between songs occasionally soothes my vocals. Like to smoke weed? Grind it up and extract the crystals from the lid of the grinder, and put a wee pinch of crystal into a water bong! Pipes and joints deliver a ridiculous heat blast to your folds and will singe the tiny hairs in the throat that are designed to slide away mucous. Use the remains in the grinder for cooking. Finally, the bigger you are, the thicker and longer your vocal apparatus, the longer you have to warm up. I'm wide shouldered, fairly tall, and WILL suffer the consequences if I don't warm up for 20 to 30 minutes. FINALLY finally, if you don't know what "blended salads" are, your body and vocals are missing out on the reinforcement of nutrients: LARGE!

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24 Dec 07 - 11:54 AM (#2221942)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Alice

What should singers eat?
Eat healthy foods.
Stay hydrated with water, not caffeine or alcohol.
DON'T stuff yourself with food or liquids right
before a performance.
If you are in a dry atmosphere, a little milk will
actually help with the dry throat problem.
Eating healthy food on a regular basis and
staying hydrated is all you have to focus on.

There are plenty of other singing dos and don'ts I've
posted on Mudcat over the years.

Don't smoke anything. Don't scream or shout unless you
want to eventually lose your singing voice. Learn good
vocal technique so you can sing all your life long.
No matter what "size" you are, every singer needs to learn
good warmup technique to preserve their voice and perform
their best.

Alice

---

24 Dec 07 - 12:17 PM (#2221950)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Don Firth

Lots of good information HERE.

Don Firth

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25 Dec 07 - 01:30 AM (#2222243)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: DonMeixner

Listen to Alice.

I took this thread to mean, When the voice goes south on you at a gig what food will help.

I get the scratches something wicked now and then. Oddly tho' I can still yodel when beset by the screeches. I have the waitress at the Pub bring me a couple of rolls with butter. This helps the cracks in the throat on a very temporary basis. I have also sipped some brandy which did work, again on a temporary basis.

On a regular basis I never eat before a job. I don't drink alcohol during a job. I have a very nice microphone and I know how to work the inches between me and it.

Don

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25 Dec 07 - 09:26 AM (#2222335)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Volgadon

"Martin C does not partake of cheese as it is detrimental for the voice

Not a lot of people know that!!"

Edam Martin C! How could he bring himself to sing that song?

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25 Dec 07 - 06:50 PM (#2222504)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Stringsinger

Stay away from rich foods particularly dairy. Don't drink booze, coffee or smoke.
The question you might ask is what will be the best way to keep my voice through the years.

then again, if you don't care what you sound like, you might abuse your voice like so
many do today. Many people don't care if the voice sounds rough or harsh.

Frank

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26 Dec 07 - 06:59 AM (#2222631)
Subject: what foods ar good for the throat and voice?
From: GUEST,ferdinard isikhuemen from nigeria

i am a chorister in my church but i found out that when i take some particular set of food and snacks, i find it difficult to sing well so i want to know the type of food that i can be taking to improve on my voice and the type of food to avoid when i want to go on performance.u can repply me via this email [e-mail]

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29 Mar 09 - 03:17 PM (#2599959)
Subject: RE: Meloids--now can be ordered on line.
From: GUEST,Gyounker

Many people are looking for the past favorite throat lozengers "Meloids" as used by Pavarotti. I have just received a second order in from Yartook.com that is in Thailand. I have ordered 3, and then 5, just to be sure it was a real item. They are in a small plastic carry case and come in a Meloids rip apart paper. Go to website, and type in Meloids, register, and order. It took 16 days to arrive here in Florida. They are small and nothing like Altoids but a lot like Potter's original. It really works!!! George

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29 Mar 09 - 03:24 PM (#2599962)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,GYounker

" Meloids" can now be ordered from Yartook.com in Thailand. They are nothing like Altoids and a lot like Potter's originals. I hope this time my post gets through. George

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29 Mar 09 - 04:51 PM (#2600025)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: sharyn

If I have a bad cold with congestion, my favorite remedy is Chinese hot and sour soup, which is full of vinegar, chicken broth, garlic, ginger, cayenne and other things mentioned here. As mentioned here and elsewhere, water is your best fluid for throats, room temperature or warm is the best for your voice -- not hot, not cold.

Sharyn

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02 Feb 10 - 08:46 AM (#2828073)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Crooner 64

Your right about Pavarotti liking cheese,he had a private chef knock up his fave carbonara after concerts,but as with all opera singers they avoid the dairy products before they sing.I wonder why Katherine Jenkins sounds like she's had 5 Mars bars before singing?She has a clogged sound!:)

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02 Feb 10 - 12:47 PM (#2828261)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: blogward

While the only reason an inflamed throat should affect your voice is because it reduces the size of the pipe between your vocal cords and your palette - you SHOULDN'T be depending on the back of your throat at all, unless it's roughen up the odd dramatic stress note - an old remedy is to slice up an onion in a bowl, cover it in brown sugar, cover the lot with a damp cloth and/or leave in the fridge over night. In the morning, drink the resultant syrup. It doesn't taste as bad as it sounds, and it works.

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02 Feb 10 - 04:12 PM (#2828450)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Zany Mouse

Rod Shearman always used to swear by Fisherman's Friend.

Blessings
Rhiannon

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03 Feb 10 - 04:12 PM (#2829150)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Bonzo3legs

Dulce de leche!

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07 Jun 10 - 08:25 AM (#2922295)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST

If you would like to buy "Meloids", you can search it in Ebay.
There's a seller on Ebay.com that sell Meloids from Thailand.

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07 Jun 10 - 09:38 AM (#2922336)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: Stringsinger

For a minimal period, a strong voice can overcome eating abuse. Then, it goes.
Dairy and alcohol are abusive for the voice. The voice can still overcome it for a shorter period of time. Even Caruso had an occasional cigarette.

The best of athletes can last for a short time on bad food.

How many years would you like to be singing?

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30 Jul 10 - 04:12 PM (#2955348)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Dave

Has anyone else noticed they can sing like crazy after taking Vicodin? I have chronic back pain, and when I take a couple of these, I can sing almost anything.

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30 Jul 10 - 09:49 PM (#2955490)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods r good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Guest from Sanity

For what it's worth, James Brown (' The Godfather of Soul') used to eat lemons, several, before going on. This I KNOW!..also lemons in warm to hot water!

GfS

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14 Feb 11 - 08:03 AM (#3094962)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST

There are many foods that directly affect the throat and voice in positive and negative ways.
If read the blog Superiorvocalhealth.blogspot.com
you can find amazing articles on natural voice care with herbs supplements and diet.

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14 Feb 11 - 12:09 PM (#3095099)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST

I don't doubt that "There are many foods that directly affect the throat and voice in positive and negative ways". But a basic understanding of your own biology can help you to distinguished good informed advice from bad, ill-informed (or commercially orientated) advice. As my biology teacher said to us teenagers back in the 80's, "you'd know if Boy George scratched his ass but you don't understand your own bodies"

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14 Feb 11 - 12:36 PM (#3095112)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Taconicus

Apples are good for getting the throat ready to sing, good moisture, pH and texture for clearing away crud.

That's what I heard when I was singing in the chorus. We were advised that using little chunks of apple when our throats got dry was much better than just drinking water.

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24 May 12 - 05:03 PM (#3355226)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Arlene

Where can I purchase Meloids either in Canada or online?

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13 Oct 14 - 10:22 AM (#3668634)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,astelin

We're a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community. Your website provided us with valuable information to work on. You have done a formidable job and our whole community will be grateful to you. [url=http://e-pharmacist.org/buy-meds-online/]does allegra contain sulfa[/url]

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13 Oct 14 - 10:50 AM (#3668647)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Big Al Whittle

amoxyllin, wine gums, talisker

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13 Oct 14 - 05:18 PM (#3668781)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Rahere

I think you're mixing up 3 different things:
1. Curing a gunked throat temporarily - Vocal Zone, or the other approximations mentioned above. Good for 1 hour's singing, not more.
2. Curing a gunked throat permanently - puke clears the mucus, honey cleans the surface, live yoghurt restores the correct blend. Salt water might make you puke, or enough whisky.
3. Stopping a throat getting gunked in the first place: healthy eating, plenty of fruit and veg, lemon and honey. Avoid the tube at rush hour. Get enough sleep.

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14 Oct 14 - 12:38 AM (#3668873)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Donuel

Is honey and vinegar still a thing?

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14 Oct 14 - 05:25 AM (#3668916)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: sciencegeek

I was advised that drinking white grapefruit juice helps keep the phlegm at bay... not pink grapefruit. it was hard to find, but now seems to more common on the shelves. It does seem to help.

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14 Oct 14 - 06:38 AM (#3668929)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Jim Carroll

Bangalore Phal does wonders for the high notes!
Jim Carroll

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14 Oct 14 - 06:55 AM (#3668932)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: Jim Carroll

Oysters help with erotic songs too!
Jim Carroll

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29 Oct 14 - 09:56 AM (#3672790)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Cher

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06 Jul 15 - 03:18 PM (#3721452)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: GUEST,Alice-Turkey

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06 Jul 15 - 03:48 PM (#3721458)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: meself

"Leila and her impartial Amsterdam escorts stand apart."

That's an interesting mental picture - but who or what are they standing apart from - the "Istanbul Escorts"? And why "impartial"? Business is business, of course - but wouldn't you prefer your escort to be at least somewhat partial?

And are they really that good for the throat?

---

14 Oct 16 - 12:32 PM (#3814684)
Subject: RE: Voice -what foods are good for the throat?
From: JMB

I have been thinking about this lately, so it is good to find this thread. When I read the part about ginger, I remembered being at a meeting and had the coughs, someone gave me a ginger cookie and said it is good for the coughs.

I have been working on a diet to help with my throat. Here is what I am trying to make a habit. I mostly have fluids so far, but working on solids.

Reduce coffee intake. (Chug a glass of water before and after a cup of coffee when I have one).

Have a glass of orange juice with breakfast.

Drink tea with honey in the afternoon.

Drink herbal tea in the early evening.

Have a couple of beer after supper. (I find that in moderation, beer relaxes the throat. When I have a beer in the evening and get a good nights sleep, it can help my voice).

Before bed, have a clove or two of garlic. It was recommended to me by someone that if you take a clove of garlic and chew on it, and suck down the juice, it helps the throat. I prefer to take it before bed, because at times even if I brush my teeth after taking it, people can still smell the strong scent.

Plenty of water is the mix too, of course.



This is a strategy I have been working on, and I am still working on solids.

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