I know there are probably people who try and tell you that some things are the healthiest for your voice as a singer. Most of them are right; however, most of them are wrong, too. Making sure you have a clear tone and voice is very important for things, such as juries and performances, as well as in practice. In this list, you'll find out what is best for your voice and how it effects your singing voice.

1.Sleep

Yes, the first thing on our list is that which many of us are oh so happy to do. A lack of sleep may provide the chance of straining your voice, especially if you pair that lack of sleep with still singing. Then, the worst thing can happen. You go to your doctor, you tell them you haven't been getting proper sleep and then they say, "You need to take some time off till your voice has healed," which, as any music major will tell you, can't happen.

2. Stay Hydrated

This is just as important as sleep. While hydrated, the vocal folds will stay limber and helps to maintain the protective mucus lining that coats the vocal folds. Now, there are some things we know that will hurt singing, such as caffeine intake and milk products; but, certain living factors will also cause for worse singing conditions. Some medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, can dry out your vocal chords and hurt the mucus lining, as well as air conditioning and heaters. In retrospect, it'd probably be a good thing to just stick with water.

3. Eat 1-2 Hours Before

Eat food about 1-2 hours before either practicing, a lesson or a performance so that the food can start to digest. Another thing is, eat non-heavy foods, such as chicken, fish, almonds, and eggs. Some bad choices are citrus fruits, dairy products and spicy foods. The fruits and spicy foods will irritate the vocal chords and dairy products will add more mucus to the vocal folds. Another thing to avoid is things that will cause food in the stomach.

4. Not Abusing Your Voice

Yes, as many of you may know, screaming at things, such as football, parties and just a get together, can hurt your voice. But, did you know that you can hurt your singing, too? Indeed, prolonged screaming can hurt your vocal chords. When you scream during a game, it is recommended that you use your head voice.

Yes, there are many things that can help your voice; but, also things that will hurt your singing ability. There are other things to avoid as a singer; but, that's for another time. So, please, heed my advice in seeing what is best for your voice and be the best singer or vocal educator.